Jake presently followed him into a small, dimly lighted room, and noted that the landlord came to wait on them with obsequious attention. Two peons were drinking in a corner, but they went out when the landlord made a sign. Jake thought this curious, but Don Sebastian filled his glass and gave him a cigarette. "Now," he said, "we have the place to ourselves and you can tell your story." Jake related how a stranger had stolen into their shack a few days ago, and Don Sebastian listened attentively. "You do not think it was one of the peons employed at the dam?" he suggested. "No," said Jake. "Anyhow, Payne seemed satisfied it wasn't." "He would probably know them better than you. Do you keep money in the house?" "Very little. We lock up the money for wages in the pay-office safe. Anyhow, I'm not sure the fellow came to steal." "If he did so, one would not imagine that he would be satisfied with blotting-paper," Don Sebastian agreed. "You said there was some coffee on the table." "There was. Payne reckoned the fellow meant to dope it. What do you think?" "It is possible, if he had ground for being revengeful. Some of the Indians from the mountains are expert poisoners. But why should anybody wish to injure your comrade?" "I didn't suggest that he wished to injure Brandon. He might have meant to dope me." Don Sebastian smiled. "That is so, but on the whole I do not think it probable. Do you know of anybody whom your friend has harmed?" Jake decided to tell him about Oliva. He was now convinced that Don Sebastian knew more than he admitted and that his interest was not unfriendly. Besides, there was somehow a hint of authority in the fellow's thin, dark face. He showed polite attention as Jake narrated the events that had led to Oliva's dismissal, but the lad imagined that he was telling him nothing he had not already heard. "The motive may have been revenge, but as Senor Brandon was stabbed that ought to satisfy his enemy. Besides, these people are unstable; they do not even indulge in hatred long. Do you know if your comrade has taken any part in political intrigue?" "It's most unlikely; he would make a very poor conspirator," Jake replied. "Then have you heard of any senorita, or perhaps a half-breed girl who has taken his fancy?" "No," said Jake. "Dick is not that kind." He thought Don Sebastian had been clearing the ground, eliminating possibilities to which he did not attach much weight, and waited with interest for his remarks. "Well," said the Spaniard, "I think you and the man, Payne, should watch over your friend, but it might be better if you did not tell him you are doing so or ask him any questions, and I would sooner you did not mention this interview. If, however, anything suspicious happens again, it might be an advantage if you let me know. You can send word to me at the hotel." "Not at Kenwardine's?"