CHAPTER XXI
EACH TO HIS OWN
A straggling train of pack mules followed by a six-mule wagon, trailed past Yaqui Springs ten days later, and was met there by the faithful Chappo and two villainous looking comrades, who had cleaned out the water holes and stood guard over them until arrival of the ammunition train.
“For beyond is a dry hell for us, and on the other side the Deliverer is circled by enemy fighters who would trap him in his own land. He lies hid like a fox in the hills waiting for this you bring. Water must not fail, and mules must not fail; for that am I here to give the word for haste.”
“But even forty mule loads will not serve him long,” said Kit doubtfully.
“Like a fox in the hills I tell you, Señor Capitan,––and only one way into the den! Beyond the enemy he has other supplies safe––this is to fight his way to it. After that he will go like a blaze through dry meadows of zacatan.”
Kit would have made camp there for the night, but Chappo protested.
“No, señor! Every drop in the sand here is for the mules of the army. It is not my word, it is the word of my general. Four hours north you will find Little Coyote well. One day more and at the crossing of Rio Seco, water will be waiting from the cold wells of La Partida. It is so arrange, señor, and the safe trail is made for you and for excellencia, the señora. In God’s name, take all your own, and go in peace!”
“But the señora is weary to death, and–––”