CHAPTER XI
THE SPANIARD'S OFFER
The afternoon passed without incident in the log prison save another and very welcome visit from Luiz, who brought water and some cloth bandages to be used on Paul's shoulder. Henry and Long Jim, familiar with hurts, dressed it carefully and skillfully. Paul's healthy blood would quickly do the rest.
"It will be stiff a little for three or four days," said Henry, "but you'll forget in a week that you ever had it."
Then he turned to Luiz.
"We'd like to thank you," he said, "I know you don't understand our words, but maybe you take our meaning."
Luiz nodded violently, smiled at the boy, and then held out his hand in quite an American fashion. His face expressed not only understanding but gratitude as well. Henry, of the acute eye and retentive mind, took a second look. Then he remembered.
"The man whom the buffalo was about to gore and run over!" he exclaimed. "Well, I am glad I was there to help you, and it seems that a lucky chance has made us a friend."
He took the proffered hand and shook it heartily. When Luiz had gone he explained to the others.