We shall not--by word, gesture, wink, or by any trick or device--give your coming American visitors the least warning that the report is not fully as honest as it appears to be." We shall back you firmly and as strongly as we know how, and help you in any way in our power to put the deal through.

Can we promise you more ?" "No," said the mine owner.

"And, on my part, I promise you that, if I sell the mine, as I now surely shall do, you shall have twenty thousand dollars, gold, apiece, and your lives also.

Here is my hand on the pledge of an hidalgo." Don Luis shook hands with both American engineers.

Even as he did so a wolfish gleam crept into his eyes.