faithful men I ever had, and he is quite as skillful in his business as
either Carlos or Dick."

"He is a mean man for all that," said Frank; "he tried to poison
Marmion, to-day."

"I don't blame him," said Archie; "a meaner, uglier dog I never saw"--

"Now, Archie," interrupted Frank, "I like the dog; and even if I didn't,
I would keep him because he is a present."

"How do you know that Pierre tried to poison him?" asked Mr. Winters.

"Why, he was holding a piece of meat out to the dog, and when I came up
he walked off in a great hurry," replied Frank, who, when he came to
state the case, found that it was not quite so strong against the
Ranchero as he had at first supposed.

"He may have done all that, and still be innocent of any desire to
injure your favorite. Marmion doesn't like him, and, no doubt, Pierre is
trying his best to make friends with him. I'll insure your dog's life
for a quarter."

Frank was far from being satisfied. Somehow, he did not like the scowl
he had often seen on Pierre's face. He was certain that the Ranchero had
intended to harm Marmion; but why? Not simply because he hated the dog,
but for the reason that the animal was in his way. This was the view
Frank took of the case; and, believing that Pierre was there for no
good, he resolved to keep a close watch on all his movements.