“What happened?”
“Nothing much to any one but you. That’s the—the hard luck of it. Florence caught us out on the slope. We were returning from the fire. We were dead beat. But we got to the ranch before any damage was done. We sure had trouble in finding a trace of you. Nick spotted the prints of your heels under the window. And then we knew. I had to fight the boys. If they’d come after you we’d never have gotten you without a fight. I didn’t want that. Old Bill came out packing a dozen guns. He was crazy. I had to rope Monty. Honest, I tied him to the porch. Nels and Nick promised to stay and hold him till morning. That was the best I could do. I was sure lucky to come up with the band so soon. I had figured right. I knew that guerrilla chief. He’s a bandit in Mexico. It’s a business with him. But he fought for Madero, and I was with him a good deal. He may be a Greaser, but he’s white.”
“How did you effect my release?”
“I offered them money. That’s what the rebels all want. They need money. They’re a lot of poor, hungry devils.”
“I gathered that you offered to pay ransom. How much?”
“Two thousand dollars Mex. I gave my word. I’ll have to take the money. I told them when and where I’d meet them.”
“Certainly. I’m glad I’ve got the money.” Madeline laughed. “What a strange thing to happen to me! I wonder what dad would say to that? Stewart, I’m afraid he’d say two thousand dollars is more than I’m worth. But tell me. That rebel chieftain did not demand money?”
“No. The money is for his men.”
“What did you say to him? I saw you whisper in his ear.”
Stewart dropped his head, averting her direct gaze.