"God be praised that a dear friend came and eased your worries! But you are not an ingrate. Since the Confederate Gringo took all my money the other morning----"
"Tiburcio, on oath, I haven't had money either, not since our last game at cards. There was Murguía, I know, but I let him off for bringing me that French girl. She was good for a big ransom, only your same Gringo--curse the intruder! If ever the Imperialists catch him, and Murguía is there to testify against him----"
Tiburcio moved nearer on the church step. "And then?"
"But Rodrigo, he _is_ caught. They are trying him and Murguía both this very minute. And do you know what for? For being your accomplices."
The outlaw started exultantly. "Then, if you want him shot----"
"Well?--Oh don't be afraid, maybe I can help."
"Were you with Captain Maurel when we ambushed them near Tampico?"
"I can't remember," said Tiburcio tentatively.
"If you will hurry down to this court martial, perhaps you will remember better. Go, and I'll leave you."
"Not quite so fast, Rodrigo. You forget that your devoted rescuer is penniless."
"So am I, I tell you. We'll both have to go to work, Don Tiburcio."
"What's the lay? Tell me." The humorist's tone was unmistakable.
Rodrigo looked about him in the dark. "Listen," he whispered, "there's a bullion convoy out of San Luis before long, but--you shall hear no more unless it is agreed that I am to meet them first."
"Of course, hombre! How else could I threaten to expose them for contributing to the rebels?"
"Bien, it's next week. You will meet them this side of Valles, some time Thursday or Friday.--Now I'm off. Adios."
"Stay. You'll find your horse down by the river. The administrator is waiting with it. And Rodrigo, don't you want your pistol? Be more careful another time, and keep it loaded."
Something in his tone nettled the brigand. "What do you mean? Give me my pistol."
Tiburcio pointed it at him instead. "When you cool a little, yes. But it takes a good marksman to hit a Frenchman with an empty pistol--especially when one wakes up and finds himself tied."
Rodrigo stiffened. This was menacing to his dignity.
"Both lassoed," Tiburcio went on, "and no telling which was heifer and which vaquero, stampeding down on poor Max.--Ai de mi, I never thought it could be so funny!"