And, by an irresistible impulse, he held out his hand to the man who had so providentially crossed his path. The latter warmly returned the vigorous pressure. Henceforth all was arranged between them. These two men who a few moments previously were ignorant of each other's existence, were friends, attached by one of those services which in American countries possess an immense value.
The blood gradually lost its black tinge; it became vermillion, and flowed abundantly. The breathing of the panting steed had grown easy and regular. The first stranger made a copious bleeding, and when he considered the horse in a fair way of recovery he stopped the effusion.
"And now," he said, "what do you propose doing?"
"My faith, I don't know. Your help has been so useful to me that I should like to follow your advice."
"Where were you going when this accident occurred?"
"To the Rancho."
"I am going there too. We are only a few yards from it. You will get up behind me. We will lead your horse, and start when you please."
"I ask nothing better. You believe that my horse cannot carry me?"
"Perhaps he could do so, for he is a noble animal; but it would be imprudent, and you would run a risk of killing him. It would be better, believe me, to act as I suggested."
"Yes; but I am afraid—"