arrangements for men and animals, and boats
if it is found feasible to use them. I've been in
correspondence with one of the merchants here,
and he promised to make arrangements for us."

"When do we leave?" asked Mr. Damon.

"As soon as possible. I am not going to risk
anything by delay," and it was evident the professor
referred to his young rival whose arrival
might be expected almost any time.

As the party was about to leave the table,
they were approached by a tall, dignified Spaniard
who bowed low, rather exaggeratedly low,
Ned thought, and addressed them in fairly good
English.

"Your pardons, Senors," he began, "but if it
will please you to avail yourself of the humble
services of myself, I shall have great pleasure
in guiding you into the interior. I have at my
command both mules and boats."

"How do you know we are going into the
interior?" asked Tom, a bit sharply, for he did
not like the assurance of the man.

"Pardon, Senor. I saw that you are from the
States. And those from the States do not come