“Perhaps you are well informed,” the sergeant retorted, “and perhaps, again, you are not.”
“It appears you give considerable weight to the statements of this Fly-by-Night.”
“There are times when a man is forced to do so, Señor Rocha,” the sergeant replied, flushing again. “Does this runaway dog of an Indian go with you?”
“He does, naturally, since he is my servant.”
“You may be walking into a trap. Yourself, four soldiers and some ladies would be a great catch for the hostiles.”
“I’ll take care of myself, sergeant, thank you.”
“Um! Since I have a sort of roving commission at the present time, I think I’ll ride along.”
“I have not asked for your escort, sergeant.”
“Nevertheless, I think I’ll ride along toward the rancho. Your four soldiers will pay more attention to discipline with a sergeant along. Besides, I wish to see this far-famed San Diego country; and, at least, it may pay me to watch this Indian servant of yours. Yes—I believe I’ll ride along!”
“You force me to say that you will not be welcome, sergeant Four soldiers are enough.”