"Ah!" said Mrs. Weldon, "Dick Sand has told you that we have not seen
Negoro again?"

"Yes, Mrs. Weldon," replied the novice. "I desired to know if Mr.
Harris had not met him."

"No," replied Harris; "so let us leave that deserter where he is, and
think of our departure--whenever you are ready, Mrs. Weldon."

Each took the pack which was intended for him. Mrs. Weldon, assisted by
Hercules, placed herself on the horse, and the ungrateful little Jack,
with his gun strapped on his back, straddled the animal without even
thinking of thanking him who had put that excellent beast at his
disposal. Jack, placed before his mother, then said to her that he
would know how to lead the gentleman's horse very well.

They then gave him the bridle to hold, and he did not doubt that he was
the veritable head of the caravan.

* * * * *




CHAPTER XVI.

ON THE WAY.