"They wanted horses, mother, and they may try and strike the ranch," said Cal.
"I think not," she said, decidedly, "but you must carry the news to Fort Craig."
"And leave you and Vic here? Never!"
"You must not pause one minute. Not even to eat. Victoria and I and the servants can bar the stockade and the house, but no Indians will come. If there is really any danger, the sooner the cavalry get here the better. Do you think you've tired Dick?"
"No, mother, but it seems as if I'd rather die than leave you here alone."
"Ride for our safety, my son. Ride steadily. It's a long push for any horse, and Dick must last till you get there."
"Yes, mother," said Cal, "but he can do it."
"Leave your rifle," she added. "You'll not need it, and it's an extra weight."
She did not let him forget to water the red mustang, and while Dick was drinking she packed a small haversack with cold meat and bread for Cal's use on the road.
He was ready to mount.