CHAPTER XXIII.
THE NEWS AT LA GUAYRA.
Great rejoicing reigned at the plantation of Don Isadora following the complete rout of the enemy, and this joy was increased by the fact that the don had not received a fatal wound. In fact, it was believed with careful nursing he would soon be about again. As he deserved, Ronie was the hero of the occasion, while his friends shared with him the praise showered upon them by one and all.
As soon as the news of the victory had been carried to the master of the estate he sent for our hero, and was lavish in his commendation, declaring that he had been instrumental in saving them all from the brutal clutches of El Capitan. But, as pleasant as all this hearty applauding was, Ronie was glad to break away from his admirers in order to be alone with Harrie and Jack. He and the former had much to say, all of which was listened to with sincere interest by the latter. Harrie explained how he and Francisco had drifted about in their boat, looking in vain for their companions until daylight, when they had sighted land, and gone ashore. Soon after, they were captured and thrown into prison, as Ronie knew. Then came the unexpected release, the journey to find Colonel Marchand, the capture by El Capitan's followers, and the rescue by his friends, which seemed the most miraculous part of his adventures. Ronie, in turn, told what had befallen Jack and himself, saying in conclusion:
"There is only one thing more that troubles me. If I knew mother was safe I could bear this troublesome waiting without murmuring. But I am afraid some fearful fate has overtaken her. I shall not rest until I know the truth."
"You know I am with you, Ronie," said Harrie.
"Ay, lad; you can count on old Jack Greenland to stand by you both, through thick and thin."
"God bless you, Jack!" exclaimed Ronie, clasping one hand, while Harrie seized the other, echoing the words of his friend:
"God bless you, Jack; a nobler soul never lived."