A dozen times Gale declared he would ride in to Casita and find out why they did not hear from Thorne; however, older and wiser heads prevailed over his impetuosity. Belding was not sanguine over the safety of the Casita trail. Refugees from there arrived every day in Forlorn River, and if tales they told were true, real war would have been preferable to what was going on along the border. Belding and the rangers and the Yaqui held a consultation. Not only had the Indian become a faithful servant to Gale, but he was also of value to Belding. Yaqui had all the craft of his class, and superior intelligence. His knowledge of Mexicans was second only to his hate of them. And Yaqui, who had been scouting on all the trails, gave information that made Belding decide to wait some days before sending any one to Casita. He required promises from his rangers, particularly Gale, not to leave without his consent. It was upon Gale's coming from this conference that he encountered Nell. Since the interrupted siesta episode she had been more than ordinarily elusive, and about all he had received from her was a tantalizing smile from a distance. He got the impression now, however, that she had awaited him. When he drew close to her he was certain of it, and he experienced more than surprise. "Dick," she began, hurriedly. "Dad's not going to send any one to see about Thorne?" "No, not yet. He thinks it best not to. We all think so. I'm sorry. Poor Mercedes!" "I knew it. I tried to coax him to send Laddy or even Yaqui. He wouldn't listen to me. Dick, Mercedes is dying by inches. Can't you see what ails her? It's more than love or fear. It's uncertainty--suspense. Oh, can't we find out for her?" "Nell, I feel as badly as you about her. I wanted to ride in to Casita. Belding shut me up quick, the last time." Nell came close to Gale, clasped his arm. There was no color in her face. Her eyes held a dark, eager excitement. "Dick, will you slip off without Dad's consent? Risk it! Go to Casita and find out what's happened to Thorne--at least if he ever started for Forlorn River?" "No, Nell, I won't do that." She drew away from him with passionate suddenness. "Are you afraid?" This certainly was not the Nell Burton that Gale knew. "No, I'm not afraid," Gale replied, a little nettled. "Will you go--for my sake?" Like lightning her mood changed and she was close to him again, hands on his, her face white, her whole presence sweetly alluring. "Nell, I won't disobey Belding," protested Gale. "I won't break my word."