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They reached Billy's horse unnoticed, and atoward the west to circle the town and regain the trail to the north and safety

To the east they heard the di rifle fire of the combatants as Pesita's men fell steadily back before the defenders, and drew them away from Cuivaca in accordance with Billy's plan

"Like takin' candy frohts of Cuivaca shone to the south of theands

"Yes," agreed Bridge; "but what I'd like to know, Billy, is how you found out I was there"

"Penelope," said Byrne, laughing

"Penelope!" queried Bridge "I'm not at all sure that I follow you, Billy"

"Well, seein' as you're sittin' on behind you can't be leadin' me," returned Billy; "but cuttin' the kid it was a skirt tipped it off to me where you was--the beautiful senorita of El Orobo Rancho, I think Jose called her Now are you hep?"

Bridge gave an exclamation of astonishment "God bless her!" he said "She did that for me?"

"She sure did," Billy assured him, "an' I'll bet an iron case she's a-waitin' for you there with buds o' roses in her hair an' kisses on her hed happily He was happy anyway at having rescued Bridge, and the knowledge that his friend was in love and that the girl reciprocated his affection--all of which Billy assue--only added to his joy "She ain't a greaser is she?" he asked presently

"I should say not," replied Bridge "She's a perfect queen from New York City; but, Billy, she's not for enerous heart She couldn't care for me, Billy Her father is a wealthy man--he could have the pick of the land--of many lands--if she cared to marry You don't think for a minute she'd want a hobo, do you?"

"You can't most always tell," replied Billy, a trifle sadly "I knew such a queen once ould have chosen a mucker, if he'd a-let her You're stuck on her, ol' e adet it Oh, say, is this the horse I let you take the night you robbed the bank?"