n on the New York
express, and went to our livery stable. He said he wanted to come
out to Baker's farm and meet you boys.

"I happened to be the only one around at the time," Hank went on,
"and as I knew the road, and knew you boys, I offered to bring him
out. But I wish I'd had some other horse. I sure didn't count on
Rex running away.

"And when I found I couldn't stop him, and knew we were headed for
the broken bridge--well, I wanted to jump out, but I didn't dare.
And I guess you felt the same way," he said to Mr. Alcando.

"Somewhat, I must confess," spoke the Spaniard, who, as I have
said, used very good English, though with an odd accent, which I
shall not attempt to reproduce.

"And then came the smash," went on Hank, "and I didn't expect, any
more than he did, that you fellows would come to our rescue. But
you did, and now, Mr. Alcando, you can deliver your letter."

"And these really are the young gentlemen whom I seek?" asked the
Spaniard. "Pardon me, I do not in the least doubt your word," he
added with a formal bow, "but it seems so strange."

"We are the moving picture boys," answered Blake with a smile,
wondering what the letter could contain, and, wondering more than
ever, why a missive from the Film Theatrical Company should be
brought by this unusual stranger.

"Then this is for you," went on Mr. Alcando. "And to think that
they saved my life!" he murmured.

"Shall I read it, Joe?" asked Blake, for the Spaniard extended the
letter to him.

"Sure. Go ahead. I'll listen."

Blake took the folded sheet from the envelope, and his first
glance was at the signature.

"It's from Mr. Hadley!" he exclaimed.

"What's up?" asked Joe, quickly.

Blake was reading in a mumbling tone, hardly distinguishable.

"Dear boys. This will introduce--um--um--um--who is desirous of
learning the business of taking moving pictures. He comes to me
well recommended--um--um" (more mumbles). "I wish you would do all
you can for him--um--and when you go to Panama--"

That was as far as Blake read. Then he cried out:

"I say, Joe, look here! I can't make head nor tail of this!"

"What is it?" asked his chum, looking over; his shoulder at the
letter the Spaniard had so strangely brought to them.

"Why, Mr. Hadley speaks of us going to Panama. That's the first
we've had an inkling to that effect. What in the world does he
mean?"

"I hope I have not brought you bad news in a prospective trip to
where the great