He tried to shout, to attract the attention of the unknown horseman, but all his efforts were unavailing.

His attempts to release his hands, however, which he commenced the instant the Ranchero left the room, were more successful.

Pierre's carelessness in tying the knots was a point in his favor then; for, in less time than it takes to record the fact, Frank was free.

He threw the noose off his neck, pulled the lasso down from the hook, and hastily coiling it up in one hand, he ran to the place where he had left his rifle, fully determined that the robber should not escape from the ranch without an attempt on his part to capture him.

His rifle was gone.