To attempt a pursuit
over the barren region about us would be to invite failure and
disaster. If we had Mexican ponies, or Indian ponies like those of the
boys, we might start at once. The boy is probably a prisoner, and a
delay of one or two days can make little difference to him."
"But can we go with any better prospect of success to-morrow or next
day?" I asked.
"Yes, a march of sixteen miles and a half will bring us to the
Colorado Chiquito--a stream flowing at all times with pure water;
there, also, we shall find abundance of grass and a recently
established cavalry camp. I received a letter from the department
commander before I left Wingate, stating that Lieutenant Hubbell and
forty New Mexican cavalry had been ordered there three weeks ago. We
shall find an abundance of grain at the camp, and can put our animals
in good condition for an expedition into Elarnagan's country in a few
days. Now, gentlemen, let us get such rest as we can, and start at an
early hour in the morning."
IX
THE RESCUING PARTY
At the close of the consultation I rejoined Corporal Frank, and we
went back to our former seat under the cliff.
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