“Where?” the lieutenant asked.
“On the coast, a bit north. I lurked about the camp and made some discoveries. Señor Zorro is mixed up with them.”
“Zorro?” the lieutenant gasped.
“The same. His wild blood has broken out again. The señorita is of the opinion that he followed to rescue her, when in reality he had her stolen. He was to have married her, but is eager for lawlessness, it appears. This will be the end of the fiend!”
“Ha!” the lieutenant gasped. “If—”
“Attend!” Ramón interrupted. “I overheard a plot. Zorro is to ride here wildly and tell of the señorita and the caballeros being held by the pirates. It is his intention to lead back the troopers—and lead them into an ambush.”
“By the saints—”
“So the pirates will wipe out your men. And then San Diego de Alcála, unprotected, will be before him!”
“The fiend!” the lieutenant gasped.
“Call half a dozen of your trusted men and have them ready. When he enters and begins his story have him seized. Throw him into the guardroom and put him into the maniac’s shirt. Then I’ll help you lead the troopers. I know how the ambush is planned. We’ll attack in the rear, save the caballeros, and rescue the señorita—and gain considerable credit. Promotion will come to you!”