"Just as I rode up in front, a man came out of the patio, and started
that automobile hurriedly. He had scarcely gotten it turned round when
one of his front tires blew out. This seemed to infuriate him and
frighten him. He considered a minute or two, then suddenly ran over to
me, snatched the leading-rope out of my hand, mounted, and fled down
the avenue at top speed."

"'The wicked flee when no man pursueth'," the master of Palomar
replied, quietly, and stepped over to the automobile for an examination
of the license. "Ah, my father's ancient enemy!" he exclaimed, "André
Loustalot has been calling on your father, and has just learned that I
am living. I think I comprehend his reason for borrowing my horse and
dusting out of here so precipitately."

"There he goes now!" Kay cried, as the gray burst from the shelter of
the palms in the avenue and entered the long open stretch of white road
leading down the San Gregorio.

Don Mike's movements were as casual as if the theft of a horse in broad
daylight was an every-day occurrence.

"Unfortunately for that stupid fellow, he borrowed the wrong horse," he
announced, gravely. "The sole result of his action will be to delay
our ride until tomorrow. I'm sorry, but it now becomes necessary for
me to ask you for Panchito."

She slid silently to the ground. Swiftly but calmly he readjusted the
stirrups; then he faced the girl.

"Want to see some fun?" he demanded.