The Mark of Zorro by JOHNSTON MCCULLEY Page A

the color of the captain’s,” Don Diego put in.
    â€œWhat is this, Don Diego, my friend? Captain, you have crossed blades with the rogue?”
    â€œI have,” the captain assented. “You but followed a tricky horse, my sergeant. The fellow was here, in a closet, and came out after I had entered. So it must have been some other man you met with his companions up in the hills. This Señor Zorro treated me much as he treated you in the tavern—had a pistol handy in case I should prove too expert with the blade.”
    Captain and sergeant looked at each other squarely, each wondering how much the other had been lying, while Don Diego chuckled faintly and tried to press the Señorita Lolita’s hand, and failed.
    â€œThis thing can be settled only in blood!” Gonzales declared. “I shall pursue the rascal until he is run to earth. I have permission to select my men?”
    â€œYou may take any at the presidio,” the captain said.
    â€œSergeant Gonzales, I should like to go with you,” Don Diego said suddenly.
    â€œBy the saints! It would kill you, caballero! Day and night in the saddle, up hill and down hill, through dust and heat, and with a chance at fighting!”
    â€œWell, perhaps it were best for me to remain in the pueblo,” Don Diego admitted. “But he has annoyed this family, of which I am a true friend. At least, you will keep me informed? You will tell me how he escapes if he dodges you? I at least may know that you are on his trail, and where you are riding, so I may be with you in spirit?”
    â€œCertainly, caballero —certainly!” Sergeant Gonzales replied. “I shall give you the chance of looking upon the rogue’s dead face. I swear it!”
    â€œâ€™Tis a terrible oath, my sergeant. Suppose it should come to pass—”
    â€œI mean, if I slay the rascal, caballero. My captain, do you return this night to the presidio?”
    â€œYes,” Ramón replied. “Despite my wound, I can ride a horse.”
    He glanced toward Don Diego as he spoke, and there was almost a sneer upon his lips.
    â€œWhat magnificent grit!” Don Diego said. “I, too, shall return to Reina de Los Angeles, if Don Carlos will be as good as to have his carriage brought around. I can tie my horse to the rear of it. To ride horseback the distance again this day would be the death of me!”
    Gonzales laughed and led the way from the house. Captain Ramón paid his respects to the ladies, glowered at Don Diego, and followed. The caballero faced Señorita Lolita again as her parents escorted the captain to the door.
    â€œYou will think of the matter?” he asked. “My father will be at me again within a few days, and I shall escape censure if I am able to tell him that it is all settled. If you decide to wed me, have your father send me word by a servant. Then I shall put my house in order against the wedding day.”
    â€œI shall think of it,” the girl said.
    â€œWe could be married at the mission of San Gabriel, only we should have to make the confounded journey there. Fray Felipe, of the mission, has been my friend from the days of my boyhood, and I would have him say the words, unless you prefer otherwise. He could come to Reina de Los Angeles and read the ceremony in the little church on the plaza there.”
    â€œI shall think of it,” the girl said again.
    â€œPerhaps I may come out again to see you within a few days, if I survive this night. Buenas noches, señorita! I suppose I should—er—kiss your hand?”
    â€œYou need not take the trouble,” Señorita Lolita replied. “It might fatigue you.”
    â€œAh—thank you! You are thoughtful, I see. I am fortunate if I get me a thoughtful wife.”
    Don Diego sauntered to the door. Señorita Lolita rushed into her own room and beat at her breasts with her hands, and tore at her hair a bit, too angry, too