"Look, Peppita," and the elder woman pointed at Adrian.
The girl gave a little scream.
"_Madre mia!_" she exclaimed. "Who is it?"
"I know not, my child. I found him unconscious at our back door
and dragged him inside."
"I beg your pardon," said Adrian. "I didn't know I was near any
house."
"It is a very poor one, senor. I and my daughter are all alone
since my poor Leocadio was killed."
"Who killed him?" asked Adrian, becoming interested.
"The Huertistas. He was a soldier under Gen. Dorantes."
"Is that so?" exclaimed Adrian. "I know Gen. Dorantes well. He is
a fine man. But you will soon be avenged, for Huerta's days are
short."
The woman's eyes snapped.
"_Es verdad?_" meaning, "Is it true?"
"It certainly is. Since the Americans have taken Vera Cruz, Gen.
Huerta will have to go. It is only a question of a few days."
"_Bienissimo!_ The Americans are brave men! My Leocadio was fond
of the Americans."
"I am glad of that, senora, for I am an American."
The woman and girl both started back as in fear and then came
forward again.
"How did you come here, senor?"
"I fell from a horse and sprained my ankle. I tried to walk and
must have fainted."
"Have you friends in Moreno?"
"I did have, but they have gone and I want to get to Vera Cruz.
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