The cheer was promptly answered by a succession of barks at the foot of the tree, and Vic, interpreting the boy's words to mean that she was set free, dashed off at the top of her speed for the race-course, and down its length to where the victors were now held by their dismounted riders. She bounded wildly about them for a few moments, and then, standing still, Henry saw each horse in turn place its nose to the dog's nose. One of the men struck the dog sharply with the loop of his bridle-rein, and as she fled back in the direction of the boy's outlook, he saw them separate from the crowd, and, after a brief consultation, follow her.
Henry, perceiving he was discovered, let himself down from the tree. Texas Dick and Jumping Jack approached.
"Ven acá, muchacho," said the Mexican.
Henry did not stir, and Dick said, in Spanish:
"He does not understand your lingo. I'll try him in English. Come here, boy."
Henry had not disregarded Juan's summons, for any reason, but the remark of Dick gave him an idea. By pretending to be ignorant of Spanish he might learn something that would prove of advantage to him. Accordingly he came promptly forward when Dick spoke.
"From Fort Whipple, ain't yer, youngster?"
"I am."
"D'ye know these critters?"
"The black is my brother's; the light is mine."