s."

Now that the two companies had united, they broke away from the
railroad and made a bee line toward Vera Cruz, arriving in sight
of the city at daybreak.

"Here's where we part company with the troopers," explained
Donald. "We six and Ambrosio will ride into town together and the
boys will come in as they wish. There must be no suggestion of a
military expedition."

"I see," said Mr. Black, "and I want to thank you all for your
kindness to my daughter and to me. That is about all I can do
now. Perhaps some day I can do more."

"That's enough," muttered the old trooper, "unless you can get us
all sent back home. I can't see any use of keeping us here."

"That's all right, old man," laughed the corporal. "You know you
would not go home if you could."

"Better not give me a chance," was the grumbling reply, as the
trooper bit off a big piece of tobacco and tucked it away in his
cheek.

Reveille was just sounding when the boys, accompanied by their
three friends and Ambrosio, perched upon Billie's horse, drew up
in front of Lieut. Grant's quarters. They had been recognized and
passed through the lines, and as the men caught sight of them
they were given a hearty cheer.

"You seem to have made friends," laughed the lieutenant as he
greeted them, "and there is every reason why you should. The
general will be glad to see you and hear your report. I have no
doubt you have a good story to tell, and he likes a good story."

When the boys reached home they found the gate still locked,
although it was now considerably past the time when the household
was astir. Their knock was answered by the _portero_, who, in
response to a question by Billie, said that Santiago was
seriously ill and had been for thirty-six hours.

"What is the matter?" asked Donald.

"Fever."

"I am not surprised," declared Adrian. "The strange thoughts he
has been thinking so many days were bound to result in something
serious."

"Perhaps it is not convenient for us to remain here," said Mr.
Black. "We can, I am sure, find some other place."

But at this moment Lucia appeared at the head of the stairs.
When made acquainted with Mr. Black's words she would not hear of
his taking Josie to any other house and gave orders for making
her perfectly at home. The only one who did not remain was
Strong.

"I'll come back this evening," he said. "I have a strange story
to tell you boys and I may need your help in locating a man I am
most anxiou