Belding and those rangers have made you the real thing--the real
Western goods....What I want to know is all about the girl."
"Well, Laddy swears she's got your girl roped in the corral for looks."
"That's not possible. I'll have to talk to Laddy....But she must be
a wonder, or Dick Gale would never have fallen for her....Isn't it
great, Dick? I'm here! Mercedes is well--safe! You've got a
girl! Oh!....But say, I haven't a dollar to my name. I had a lot
of money, Dick, and those robbers stole it, my watch--everything.
Damn that little black Greaser! He got Mercedes's letters. I wish
you could have seen him trying to read them. He's simply nutty
over her, Dick. I could have borne the loss of money and
valuables--but those beautiful, wonderful letters--they're gone!"
"Cheer up. You have the girl. Belding will make you a proposition
presently. The future smiles, old friend. If this rebel business
was only ended!"
"Dick, you're going to be my savior twice over....Well, now, listen
to me." His gay excitement changed to earnest gravity. "I want
to marry Mercedes at once. Is there a padre here?"
"Yes. But are you wise in letting any Mexican, even a priest,
know Mercedes is hidden in Forlorn River?"
"It couldn't be kept much longer."
Gale was compelled to acknowledge the truth of this statement.
"I'll marry her first, then I'll face my problem. Fetch the padre,
Dick. And ask our kind friends to be witnesses at the ceremony.
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