Then the Panther chose Ned for a little scouting work on horseback.

Ned found Old Jack seeking blades of grass within the limits allowed by his lariat.
But when the horse saw his master he stretched out his head and neighed.
"I think I understand you," said Ned.

"Not enough food and no water.
Well, I'll see that you get both later, but just now we're going on a little excursion." The Panther and Ned rode boldly out of the trees, and advanced a short distance upon the plain.

Two or three shots were fired from a point behind the first swell, but the bullets fell far short.
"I counted on that," said the Panther.

"If a Mexican has a gun it's mighty hard for him to keep from firing it.