pursuers into every trap which his crafty brain could devise.
History tells of Pilar's call to arms. He was attending a great
ball in Dagupan, given in honour of his approaching nuptials. In
the midst of the festivities a messenger dashed in with the news
that the American troops were closing in on Tarlac, the insurgents'
seat of government. Pilar rushed from the ballroom and made his
way to the head of his command. His parting from the bride-to-be
is pathetically described by many of the writers who were in the
islands at the time. There was no more daring, romantic character
in all the Philippines than young Pilar. Educated, refined, clever
and attractive, he was a favourite with all, admired by friend and
foe alike.

Captain Groce, with a company of infantry, was following him closely
and doggedly into the fastnesses far to the north. Village after
village was devastated by the white troops, always a few hours after
the wily Pilar had evacuated. Amigos laughed in their deceptive
sleeves at the Americans and misdirected them with impunity. In
eight cases out of ten the amigo wore arms underneath his garment
of friendship and slew in the dark whenever opportunity arose.
Graydon Bansemer was one of this doughty, eager company which blazed
the way into the hills. Close behind came the bigger and stronger
forces, with guns and horse, and the hospital corps. It was the
hunt of death for Aguinaldo and Pilar.

Shortly after daybreak, one morning, a slim, black figure crept out
from among the trees and gave the countersign to the challenging
sentry. He was soon on his way to the Captain's headquarters
bearing news of importance. The brown-skinned scout had travelled
all night over a hazardous route, and he was more than welcome. He