in the room. His next action was to seize Frank by the collar of his
jacket, and pull him roughly to his feet, preparatory to putting into
operation his new plan for compelling him to tell where he had hidden
the office key.

"If you conclude to answer my question, let me know it," said the
Ranchero.

"I will," was Frank's reply.

Pierre stepped upon a chair, and removing one of the pictures from its
hook, tossed it upon the bed. After that, he took Frank's lasso down
from the nail, beside the book-case, and holding the noose in his hand,
threw the other end over the hook.

Frank had thus far shown himself to be possessed of a good share of
courage. He had bravely endured the choking, and had made defiant
replies to all Pierre's threats; but when he saw this movement, he
became thoroughly alarmed. He knew what was coming.

"Aha!" exclaimed the Ranchero, who had not failed to notice the sudden
pallor that overspread the boy's countenance; "Aha!"

"What are you going to do?" asked Frank, in a trembling voice.

"Can't you see?" returned the Ranchero, with a savage smile. "I told you
that I was going to make you tell me where you had put that office key,
didn't I? Well, I intend to do it. I have tamed many a wild colt, and I
know how to tame you!"