received orders to wait for a sergeant and three recruits who have been
assigned to my company. The messenger reports that they are on the march
from Fort Bent with an emigrant train, and will not be here for a week. It
annoys me horribly, Miss Van Diemen. I thought I saw my way clear to be of
your party. I assure you I earnestly desired it. This route--I am afraid
of it--I wanted to be with you."

"To protect me?" queried Clara, her face lighting up with a grateful
smile, so innocent and frank was she. Then she turned grave, again, and
added, "I am sorry."

Thankful for these last words, but nevertheless quite miserable, the
youngster worshipped her and trembled for her.

This conversation had been carried on in a quiet tone, so that the others
of the party had not overheard it, not even the watchful Coronado.

"It is too unfortunate," said Clara, turning to them, "Lieutenant
Thurstane cannot go with us."

Garcia and Coronado exchanged a look which said, "Thank--the devil!"




CHAPTER IV.


The next day brought news of an obstacle to the march of the wagon train
through Santa Anna and Rio Arriba.