Both Nestor and
Lieutenant Gordon understood that they were fearful that
they were to be taken at once back to New York, in which
case they would be deprived of a chance to plunder the
hidden mine, which they had come so far to find. Nestor
had explained, very briefly, to the lieutenant that the
Mexican and the watchman were there in quest of treasure,
but had not confided to him the whole story of the Cameron
tragedy, it being separate and distinct from the issue which
had brought the secret service men to Mexico.
Don Miguel maintained a dignified silence--as dignified as
a panting man can hold--through-out the tiresome journey,
except on one occasion. Once, while the night watchman
was violently demanding information concerning the crime
with which he was to be charged, the diplomat asked:
"Why are you so silent concerning the man's alleged crime?
It appears to me that you are conducting an abduction rather
than an arrest. I, also, am anxious to know something of the
charges against me."
"You shall know in good time," replied the lieutenant.
"I believe," Don Miguel went on, "that I can convince even
you, prejudiced though you are, that you are making a great
mistake--a costly mistake, both for yourself and your
government."
"When we reach the tents I will listen to you," was the short
reply, and the little party went on its way in silence for a
long time, silent save for the mutterings of the Mexican and
his fellow-conspirator, as Nestor believed the watchman to be.
Pages:
97
98
99
100
101
102
103
104
105
106
107
108
109
110
111
112
113
114
115
116
117
118
119
120
121