“For what?” asked Billie.
“Why, in reference to the ten thousand pounds. If we succeed in tracing the purchaser of these drafts, your testimony will be necessary to punish those who may be responsible for creating this trouble along the Rio Grande.”
“What is he talking about, Ad?” queried Donald.
“I’m sure I don’t know. I haven’t heard anything about ten thousand pounds. What is it, Billie?”
In answer to which question, Billie related again, both for the benefit of his chums and of Lieutenant Grant and Captain Peak, the story of his experiences in the river and at Don Pablo’s hacienda.
“Suppose no owner is found for the drafts?” asked Captain Peak. “Then what?”
“I reckon the bank will be that much ahead, unless,” the lieutenant added, with a laugh, “our friend Billie should wish to return them to Don Pablo.”
“Hardly,” replied Billie. Then, as an afterthought: “Santiago said they were to be a part of my reward.”
“Who is Santiago?” queried Lieutenant Grant.
“A mystery,” was the laughing rejoinder.