I did not need to be sent.

I am faithful." Nicolas followed this with a smile that showed his white teeth.
He spoke in utter simplicity.
"And now what can I do for you, _caballeros_ ?" the Mexican inquired.
"Nicolas," asked Tom, with sudden inspiration, "is there any store hereabouts?
Any place where food can be purchased ?" "No, senor; there is a store not far from the shaft entrance of _El Sombrero_ Mine.

That is where the _peons_ of the mine draw their food, and have it charged against their pay accounts.

But no one may buy there for cash." "Is there no place where you can buy food for us ?" "_Caballeros_, of course, I will not pretend not to understand that you are on bad terms with Don Luis.

Hence, both his storekeeper and his _peons_ would hesitate to sell food for you or to you.
But I have a relative who works in the mine, and he is a brave man.