CHAPTER V.
THE FIGHT IN THE COURT.
Frank was certainly in a predicament.

He had his choice between revealing the hiding-place of the office key, and being hanged with his own lasso--a most disagreeable alternative.

On one side was a lingering death, and on the other, something of which Frank stood almost as much in awe--disgrace.

Never before had so heavy a responsibility rested upon him; and if he lost that money, what other evidence would be needed to prove that he was not worthy of being trusted?
"Come, come!" exclaimed the Ranchero, impatiently.

"Are you going to answer my question ?" "I don't know whether I am or not," replied Frank.