he was suddenly aroused from his meditations by a commotion in the
bushes at his side, and the next moment a man sprang in front of the
horse, and seized him by the bridle.

"Pierre Costello!" exclaimed Frank, as soon as he had somewhat recovered
from his astonishment.

"Ay, it's Pierre, and no mistake," returned the Ranchero, with a
triumphant smile. "You thought I had left the country, didn't you?"

"I was in hopes you had; but I see you are still on hand, like a bad
dollar-bill."

"We are well met," continued Pierre. "I have been waiting for an
opportunity to thank you for the very friendly manner in which you
treated me last night."

"You need not have put yourself to any trouble about it. You are under
no obligations to me. As I am in something of a hurry, I will now bid
you good-by."

"Not if I know myself, and I think I do," said Pierre, with a laugh.
"You are just as impudent as ever. Climb down off that horse."

Frank's actions indicated that he did not think it best to obey this
order. He sat perfectly still in his saddle, looking at Pierre, and
wondering what he should do. He could show no weapon to intimidate the
robber, for he was entirely unarmed, not having brought even his lasso
or clasp-knife with him; while Pierre held in his hand, ready for
instant use, the bowie that had rendered him such good service during