But, if one of you don't mind
giving Ambrosio a lift, it will help some."
Several expressed their willingness to take the ape on behind,
but he would go to no one but Billie.
"All right, old man," laughed the boy; "but no funny business,"
and he broke off a twig and shook it at Ambrosio. "You see this."
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.
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