There is no knowing when that band of robbers will be back."
"Robbers?" queried Billie, as he set the little girl on the
ground and extended his hand to the man. "What robbers?"
"They call themselves soldiers," and the man seized Billie's hand
and gave it a mighty grip, which made even Broncho Billie wince,
"but what do we care for them? With four Americans we can defy a
hundred of them." Then, as Donald and Adrian finished barring the
gate: "It's certainly good for sore eyes to see such faces," and
he grasped each boy in turn.
"Well, we're mighty glad to see you," replied Donald. "We
expected to find the place deserted."
"How did you know anything about the place?"
"This lady told us it is her home."
"What?" from the man. "Do you mean to tell me this is the Senora
Blanco?"
"Even so, Senor," replied the lady. "No one would recognize me in
these rags and grief. Oh, Senor, had it not been for these brave
Americans I should have been devoured by a lion."
"You don't tell me. But I'd know they were the real thing. Their
faces show it. But come, let's go into the house. You'll excuse
me, Senora, for taking possession of your castle."
"It is yours, Senor. Do with it as you will. But will you not do
me the favor of your name?"
"I beg your pardon, Senora.
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