Long before they reached the ranch houses Rosario came running to meet them. Plainly she was in great excitement.
“The prisoners have escaped,” she cried to MacQueen.
“Escaped. How?” demanded Black.
“Some one must have helped them. I heard a window smash and ran out. The young ranger and another man were coming out of the last cabin with the old man. I could do nothing. They ran.”
They had been talking in her own language. MacQueen jabbed another question at her.
“Which way?”
The outlaw ripped out an oath. “We’ve got ’em. They can’t reach it without horses as quick as we can with them.” He whirled upon Melissy. “March into the house, girl. Don’t you dare make a move. I’m leaving Buck here to watch you.” Sharply he swung to the man Lane. “Buck, if she makes a break to get away, riddle her full of holes. You hear me.”
A minute later, from the place where she lay face down on the bed, Melissy heard him and his men gallop away.