"Thank you, sir," said our young trooper, "but with your permission I should prefer to make a start at once, with the hope of reaching Enramada before my comrade, and thus preventing a sad mistake on the part of your troops."
"But, my young friend, you have already travelled far to-day and are exhausted."
"I still have some strength left."
"Night is upon us, and the trails are very dangerous."
"There is a young moon, and you will furnish reliable guides," replied Ridge, smiling.
"If I should not furnish them?"
"Then I would set forth alone."
"You are determined, then, to proceed at once?"
"I am, sir, unless detained by force."
"Ah, heavens! These Americans!" cried the General, with an air of resignation. "They will leave nothing for to-morrow that may be squeezed into to-day. They know not the meaning of 'mañana.' Ever impatient, ever careless of consequences, and yet they succeed. Can it be that theirs is the way of wisdom? But no, it is their good fortune, what they call 'luck.' Yes, señor, it shall be as you desire. In an hour all shall be in readiness for your departure."