“It may be readily understood that this is a dishonest trick of the villain’s, and the sense of justice of every good man must be aroused. Meanwhile, a deserter front Miguel’s band brings us the story, also a request from Montaine, who begs us to write you to come to his relief with your New Steam Man. We are obeying the dictates of Senor Montaine in writing this letter.
“That you may best follow your own conclusion in granting your friend’s request, we have no doubt that you will appreciate fully his extreme peril.
“This is the case, and in laying it before you, dear senor, we believe that we are but doing our duty as Christian gentlemen. Your answer and decision we await with some impatience and much hope. I have the honor, senor, to faithfully subscribe myself yours,
“Jose Ravello.
“Hotel San Juan, Laredo, Mexico.”
Frank read the letter through carefully. Then he leaned back in his chair.
There was a strange excited light in his fine eyes, and he exclaimed in a musical, but tense voice:
“Poor Montaine! He is one of my best friends. So he is in trouble, eh? Well, I would be inhuman indeed not to respond to his appeal.”
Frank sprang up and put on his hat.
As he left the study he met a colored man in the hall. He was a fat, jolly little darky, and as black as the ace of spades.