from all three.

"Then show the men the nearest way! Now go! The safety of the
city may depend upon you!"

CHAPTER XIX.

AN UNUSUAL RIDING PARTY.

Flinging themselves into the saddle, the boys rode rapidly after
Lieutenant Grant and were at Colonel Bright's quarters by the
time the bugle had called to boots and saddle. In another minute,
at the head of a squadron of cavalry, they dashed over the road
they had come to know so well.

What happened during the next twenty minutes is history.

Guided by the boys, the reinforcements arrived opportunely to
stop the advance of a large body of Mexicans who would have
destroyed the water works and have left the inhabitants and the
American troops entirely without water.

A few minutes later two batteries with rapid-fire guns put in an
appearance, and in less time than it takes to tell it, the
Mexicans turned and fled.

It was not General Funston's mission in Vera Cruz to overrun any
more Mexican territory, so the Mexicans were allowed to retreat
without pursuit; but the lines were strengthened so that from
that time on there was never any danger from Huerta's forces,
although there were numerous alarms and plenty of scout duty.

During the few minutes of fighting, the boys were in the midst
of it and all came through it without a scratch. But it was
exciting work and when it was over they were publicly thanked by
Colonel Bright for their good work.

"Well," laughed Billie as the three rode slowly back to their
home, "that's glory enough for one day. I don't care to be a
soldier."

"Nor I!" agreed Donald. "I prefer a quiet life on the ranch."

"Which we are in a fair way to see in a few weeks," commented
Adrian. "I have no doubt that General Funston will do as he
agreed and find us passage."

"I for one shall be glad to return to the States," said Donald.

"So shall I after I have found out about Santiago's connection
with that ten thousand pounds."

"That's right," was the laughing rejoinder. "Stick to it, Billie,
and who knows what may happen?"

"Do you know," remarked Adrian slowly, "I'm beginning to be
considerably worried for the Americans scattered throughout
Mexico."

"Why should you be?" from Donald.

"I remember Pedro's words that, if the United States did
anything, Carranza would unite with Huerta."

"I don't believe he would."

"Maybe not. But the Zapata brothers will think this a good time
to make the Americans trouble. I was think