Five miles further on Col. Warner left the stage.
“Gentlemen,” he said, “I am sorry to leave this pleasant company, but I have a mining claim in this neighborhood, and must bid you farewell. I trust that when you think of me hereafter, you will acquit me of the injurious charges which have been made against me. I take no credit to myself for driving away the ruffian who stopped us, but hope you won't forget it.”
“No one interfered with the colonel when he proposed to leave the stage. Indeed, the passengers were unanimous in accepting his departure as a relief. In spite of his plausible representations, he was regarded with general suspicion.
“I wish I knew the meaning of that Spanish lingo,” said the German, Conrad Stiefel.
“I can interpret it for you, Mr. Stiefel,” said George Melville, quietly. “I have some knowledge of Spanish.”
“What did he say?” asked more than one, eagerly.
“He said: 'You fool! Don't you see the plot has been discovered? It wasn't my fault. I will soon join you and explain.'”
This revelation made a sensation.
“Then he was in league with the road agent, after all?” said Parker.
“Certainly he was. Did you for a moment doubt it?” said Melville.