They were of the gauchero type, with slashed trousers and broad-brimmed hats.
Most of them were possessed of the swarthy hue of the half-breed, part Spanish and part native.
But one of them, who seemed to be the leader, was possessed of a white skin.
He was plainly an American, though his face showed hardened lines, and his deep-set eyes burned with a sullen light.
The leader will recognize him at once as the treacherous partner of Royal Harding, and with whom the treasure seeker had the hard battle on the cliff.
The treacherous villain had been to Quito and procured a rascally guard of gaucheros with which to return and recover the Incas’ treasure.
These four were but the advance guard, and as they stood there regarding the Kite in amazement a score more of the desperadoes came into view.
“Well, I’ll be hanged!” exclaimed Lester Vane, in astonishment. “How did that ship ever come as far inland as this?”
The gauchero at his elbow touched his sombrero, and replied:
“Senor, it has come here in the air.”