From a discussion of the affairs of the country, they began to seek some solution to the mystery of the photograph found in such a strange way, Ronie firm in his belief that his mother was in dire distress at that very moment.
"I cannot help thinking that for some reason she is in this country, Jack, and in trouble."
"Tut—tut, lad! that cannot be. The mere fact that her picture has in some way found its way to this place does not prove that she is nearby, too. No doubt, as soon as we reach Colonel Marchand we shall get good news from her. She may have sent her photograph by him to you, and some of the rebels have stolen it."
"Forgive me, Jack. Of course that may have been the case. Now you speak of it, it is really the most likely solution to the mystery. By that I am led to believe that you think Colonel Marchand has joined President Castro's party."
"He would be likely to do it. In fact, it would be good policy for him to do so, as it would be necessary for him to be on good footing with the government in order to carry out the business venture which has drawn us all to this country."
"I agree with you, Jack. I feel better, too, in regard to mother. Now if we can rescue Harry safely it will bring great relief. I wish Manuel would come with some word of him."
"Do not get impatient, lad. It is likely to take the fellow some time to get his information, even if he gets any. I do not have great faith in the rascal, and if we were not in his own house, I should not expect to see him back."
If Jack counseled patience in waiting for the insurgent's return, he quite forgot his advice before Manuel Marlin put in an appearance, and with good reasons, for it was well into the following night before he came. He seemed then greatly excited, and told his story in a disjointed way.
"Señors' friends came ashore in a boat from the Libertador," he declared, in what seemed an exultant tone. "Then Castro's spies captured them and threw them into prison. But señors need not fear, for the Sons of Liberty will soon free them. Even now Matos is hewing his way toward the capital. Many recruits are being added to his army, and never did the prospects of down-trodden Venezuela look brighter."
"So our friends are held as prisoners of war?" asked Jack.