"Find the man who had her photograph, and make him tell all he knows."
"I have regretted, general, that we did not return and do that."
"You were hardly prepared to do it, as I understand your condition."
"True, General Castro. We were glad to escape with our lives, and we have been kept escaping ever since."
"You have proved lively enough in the race. You spoke of that young De Caprian. What do you know of him?"
"I believe he is as true a patriot as you have in Venezuela," replied Ronie, boldly.
"I would not let anybody else say that," declared Castro, frankly. "You think I have misjudged the man, Sergeant Rand?"
"Perhaps I ought not to say it, but he appeared honest to us."
"Not if he is an enemy to your government, General Castro."
"I understand. When you go to San Carlos to get your man I will send by you the papers which shall give him his freedom. I will try him a while, and if he proves faithful his mother shall be given her liberty. I have given orders to see that she is given all the privileges possible under the circumstances. I have been very much interested in your intelligence, Sergeant Rand, and I trust I shall meet your friends when you come again."
Taking this as a hint that the interview was ended, Ronie saluted in military style, and was in the act of withdrawing when Castro said:
"Sergeant, I wish to ask you a question, and trust you will answer it in the same good faith in which it is asked. What do you believe would be the most effective thing for me to do toward quelling this rebellion in the vicinity from which you have come?"
The answer to be made came as quick as a flash into Ronie's mind, and without stopping to consider how it might sound expressed in so many words, he said:
"Take the field yourself, General Castro!"
If this reply suited him or not, the president did not show it by the look upon his features, as he said, simply:
While in doubt as to the effect his words would have upon the energetic president of the republic, Ronie was pleased in a large measure with his interview. He regretted that Harrie was not with him, and he resolved that the next time he would not go alone. Upon second thought, he could not see that there would be any occasion for him to call again. Then he drove these thoughts from his mind, and thinking of his mother and what her fate might be, he began to look anxiously for his companions.