It certainly did not show in the clear sand
of the level valley where Gale rode to and fro. When Gale returned
to the house he found Belding and Lash awaiting him. They did not
mention their own search, but stated that Yaqui had found Blanco
Sol's tracks in the Casita trail. After some consultation Belding
decided to send Lash along after Ladd.
The interminable time that followed contained for
Gale about as much suspense as he could well bear.
What astonished him and helped him greatly to fight off
actual distress was the endurance of Nell's mother.
Early on the morning of the second day, Gale, who had acquired
an unbreakable habit of watching, saw three white horses and a
bay come wearily stepping down the road. He heard Blanco Sol's
familiar whistle, and he leaped up wild with joy. The horse was
riderless. Gale's sudden joy received a violent check, then
resurged when he saw a limp white form in Jim Lash's arms. Ladd
was supporting a horseman who wore a military uniform.
Gale shouted with joy and ran into the house to tell the good news.
It was the ever-thoughtful Mrs. Belding who prevented him from
rushing in to tell Mercedes. Then he hurried out into the yard,
closely followed by the Beldings.
Lash handed down a ragged, travel-stained, wan girl into Belding's
arms.
"Dad! Mama!"
It was indeed a repentant Nell, but there was spirit yet in the
tired blue eyes. Then she caught sight of Gale and gave him a
faint smile.
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