Nor could he inform even this officer of the secret mission on which he was engaged.

At that moment evening stable-call was sounded, and a happy inspiration came to his relief.
"Very well, sir," he answered, turning as if to obey the order.

Then he added, "May I look after my horse first ?" "I suppose so," replied the officer.

"Only be quick about it, for the cook is badly in need of some one to help him." So, without making a further attempt to recover his personal belongings, Ridge hastened to the picket-line, where Senorita manifested most extravagant joy at again seeing her young master.
"Is that your horse ?" inquired the non-commissioned officer in charge of the stable guard.
Upon Ridge acknowledging that the mare was his, the other continued; "Well, I'm mighty glad you've come to look after her, for she has nearly killed two men already, and we were just wondering whether we should kill her or turn her loose.

Now you'd better take her to water." "May I put on a saddle and bridle ?" inquired Ridge.
"Of course not.