is aristocracy was unmistakable, and
Alaire prided herself that she could recognize good blood in men as
quickly as in horses. The fellow had been favored by birth, by
breeding, and by education; and although military service in Mexico was
little more than a form of banditry, nevertheless Longorio had
developed a certain genius for leadership, nor was there any doubt as
to his spectacular courage. In some ways he was a second Cid--another
figure out of Castilian romance.

While he and Alaire were talking the passengers had returned to their
seats; they were shouting good-byes to the soldiers opposite; the
engine-bell was clanging loudly; and now the conductor approached to
warn Longorio that the train was about to leave. But the railway
official had learned a wholesome respect for uniforms, and therefore he
hung back until, urged by necessity, he pushed forward and informed the
general of his train orders.

Longorio favored him with a slow stare. "You may go when I leave," said
he.

"Si, senor. But--"

The general uttered a sharp exclamation of anger, at which the
conductor backed away, expressing by voice and gesture his most hearty
approval of the change of plan.

"We mustn't hold the train," Alaire said, quickly. "I will arrange to
see you in Nuevo Pueblo when I return."

Longorio smiled brilliantly and lifted a brown hand. "No, no! I am a
selfish man; I refuse to deprive myself of this pleasure. The end must
come all too soon, and as for these peladors, an hour more or less will
make no difference. Now about these cattle. Mexico does not make war
upon women, and I am desolated that the actions of my men have caused
annoyance to the most charming lady in the world."

"Ah! You are polite." Knowing that in this man's help alone lay her
chance of adjusting her loss, Alaire deliberately smiled upon him. "Can
I count upon your help in obtaining my rights?" she asked.

"Assuredly."

"But how? Where?"

Longorio thought for a moment, and his tone altered as he said:
"Senora, there seems to be an unhappy complication in our way, and this
we must remove. First, may I ask, are you a friend to our cause?"

"I am an American, and therefore I am neutral."

"Ah! But Americans are not neutral. There is the whole difficulty. This
miserable revolt was fostered by your government; American money
supports it; and your men bear arms against us. Your tyrant President
is our enemy; his hands itch for Mexico--"

"I can't a