Taking this as a hint that the interview was ended, Ronie saluted in military style, and was in the act of withdrawing when Castro said:
"Sergeant, I wish to ask you a question, and trust you will answer it in the same good faith in which it is asked. What do you believe would be the most effective thing for me to do toward quelling this rebellion in the vicinity from which you have come?"
The answer to be made came as quick as a flash into Ronie's mind, and without stopping to consider how it might sound expressed in so many words, he said:
"Take the field yourself, General Castro!"
If this reply suited him or not, the president did not show it by the look upon his features, as he said, simply:
"Good-day, Sergeant Rand."
While in doubt as to the effect his words would have upon the energetic president of the republic, Ronie was pleased in a large measure with his interview. He regretted that Harrie was not with him, and he resolved that the next time he would not go alone. Upon second thought, he could not see that there would be any occasion for him to call again. Then he drove these thoughts from his mind, and thinking of his mother and what her fate might be, he began to look anxiously for his companions.
About half an hour later he found his friends, but they had to report a failure in regard to finding the unknown man they had hoped to find. Riva Baez, as well as Harrie and Jack, listened with interest to Ronie's account of his meeting with General Castro.
"I have faith to believe he will help us find your mother," said Harrie, "and with his assistance we cannot fail."
"Unless we are too late," replied Ronie. "I cannot bear this inactivity."