Mariano became serious.
"Señorita," he said, "Stronghand saved my life under circumstances when my only hope was in Heaven. I have seen this man perform deeds of incredible courage and audacity, for the sole object of serving people who frequently did not feel the slightest gratitude to him. To me he is more than a friend—more than a brother; whatever he bade me I would do, even if I had to lay down the life he saved, and which belongs to him. Such, niña, is my opinion about the hunter called Stronghand."
The young lady gave a glance of pleasure.
"You are deeply attached to him?" she murmured.
"As I told you, he is more to me than a brother."
"And you often see him?"
"When I want him, or he wants me."
"Does he live in the neighbourhood, then?"
"A short time back he stayed several days at the rancho."
"And will he return?"