Something about the fellow gave Frank a chill of distrust.
But he knew well that in his present position he was much at the mercy of the greasers.
It was impossible for the Steam Man to go further without water.
Frank saw a deep spring near and a plan was suggested to him.
After all, he had no right to distrust the Mexicans as yet.
The ranch might be a respectable place and, at any rate, if he desired to secure any of the water, Frank knew that he must work his cards diplomatically.
So he decided to affect friendship with the greasers, and trust to fortune to accomplish the rest.
“Your offer I will gladly accept,” said Frank, with a flourish. “Your excellent wine already warms my heart.”
“We are always glad to welcome strangers,” said the ranchero, with a peculiar smile, “but this is the first time we have ever seen a locomotive in the shape of a man, and able to run without a track.”
“Indeed!” replied Frank. “Allow me, then, to explain to you the mechanism of the New Steam Man.”