Part 43 (1/2)

”You've said it,” agreed Byrne ”It's Rio as soon as we can make it

Pesita's pro and send you under safe escort--Miguel to his happy houess the old stiff isn't so bad after all”

Miguel had pricked up his ears at the sound of the word ESCORT He leaned far forward, closer to the two Americans, and whispered

”Who is to command the escort?” he asked

”I dunno,” said Billy ”What difference does it make?”

”It makes all the difference between life and death for your friend and for uel ”There is no reason why I should need an escort

I knoay throughout all Chihuahua as well as Pesita or any of his cutthroats I have coone all my life without an escort

Of course your friend is different It ht be well for hiht; but wait until we learn who commands the escort I know Pesita well I know hisyou ood-bye to your friend forever, for you will never see him in Rio, or elsewhere He and I will be dead before ten o'clock”

”What makes you think that, bo?” deuel; ”I know”

”Well,” said Billy, ”we'll wait and see”

”If it is Rozales, say nothing,” said Miguel ”It will do no good; but we ht find the means to obtain a couple of revolvers for us In which case--” he shrugged and permitted a faint smile to flex his lips

As they talked a soldier caer prisoners--they were to have the freedoeneral requests that you do not pass beyond the limits of the camp There are many desperadoes in the hills and he fears for your safety, now that you are his guests”

The e interpret his words for the benefit of Billy, who had understood only part of what he said

”Ask hioes forthe soldier, ”that the captain is now one of theo and come as do the other officers Such are Pesita's orders”

Billy arose The uard had withdrawn, leaving the three oin' to be of any help to you and Mig the less I'm seen with you the better I'll blow over and o bunch, an' practice sittin' on ot to learn all I can about bein' a greaser seein' that I've turned one”

”Good-bye Billy, ree

”And the revolvers, senor,” added Miguel

”You bet,” replied Billy, and strolled off in the direction of the little circle of cigarette smokers

As he approached the, extended his hand

”Senor Captain,” he said, ”elco for Billy to give his name

”My monacker's Byrne,” said Billy ”Pleased to meet you, Cap”

”Ah, Captain Byrne,” and Rozales proceeded to introduce the newcomer to his fellow-officers