"I understand perfectly. You just want to get home, don't you?" And
she bent upon him a smile of complete understanding--a smile
all-compelling, maternal. "But did you say you'd hike it in from
Sespe? Why not hire a horse?"

"I'd like to have a horse, and if I cared to ask far one, I could
borrow one. But I'll hike it instead. It will be easy in light
marching-order."

"Speaking of horses," she said abruptly. "Do you know a horse in the
San Gregorio named Panchito?"

"A very dark chestnut with silver mane and tail, five-gaited, and as
stylish as a lady?"

"The very same."

"I should say I do know that horse! What about him?"

"My father is going to buy him for me."

This was news, and Farrel's manner indicated as much.

"Where did you see Panchito?" he demanded.

"An Indian named Pablo rode him into El Toro to be shod one day while
we were living at the hotel there. He's perfectly adorable."

"Pablo? Hardly. I know the old rascal."