Then Ronie described such portions of the events that had come under his observation as he thought the other would be pleased to hear, referring to himself very modestly, while General Castro listened with great interest, now and then asking some question or expressing admiration at the conduct of Colonel Marchand and his regiment. He was especially pleased with the rout given El Capitan at the estate of Don Isadora, and he made Ronie describe the affair so minutely that he was forced to speak of the part he had taken.
"I have heard nothing so pleasing," said the president. "You shall be rewarded for your gallant conduct. I am again saying that I am sorry this friend, or these American friends of yours, did not accompany you here. I will send for them."
"I am afraid you will not find them readily, as they are in search of a man in La Guayra that we want to find very much." Then he hastened to add: "But this is a personal matter, General Castro, and you will pardon me for introducing it to you. I did not intend to."
"What concerns my comrades, concerns me," cried Castro, with possibly more vehemence than he had intended. "Tell me all about it, Sergeant Rand."
Thus urged, Ronie explained what he knew in regard to his mother, the president listening attentively to every word. When he had finished, the latter said:
"Sergeant, this is a grave matter. To say nothing of my feelings for you, I cannot afford to let this affair escape my notice. It might easily be construed to mean an offense against your government. Have you communicated with Minister Bowen?"
"No, General Castro."
"I should advise you to do so as early as may be. But in the meantime we will leave no stone unturned to find her."
"You are very kind, general. What would you suggest that we do first?"
"Find the man who had her photograph, and make him tell all he knows."