The peons released Brown at a word from the Englishman.
"These men were saying you must stay here and help defend the women and children."
"Cap', I'm mighty glad to see you. Well, what about the women and children?"
"It will not be necessary. Yoscolo has been bested. The fight is over, and the wounded are already nearing the outskirts of the pueblo here."
"All well and good. Now, Cap', the padre's word to you is 'Yes.'"
"I understand, Brown."
"Now I have a word."
"Very well."
Brown dismounted and came close to Farquharson. "Are you aimin' to turn California over to the British?"
The Captain smiled broadly. "Now, see here, Brown, we've got along famously for months. You haven't asked questions and haven't suffered any loss by not doing so. Now let things run along the same old way. You've been useful to me. I'll see you get a great deal more than the money I've paid you month by month."