The writing was cramped and foreign, as if the pen were wielded by a
hand more accustomed to form German script than English letters. The
missive was brief:
"Sir, this is to inform you that Mr. John Hampton is held in a secure
place. One hundred thousand dollars must be paid for his release. A
man riding alone must bring the money in United States bills of one
thousand dollars each to the Calomares ranch two weeks from today. He
must wear a white handkerchief in his hat."
While the others read, Jack turned to Gabby Pete and said
authoritatively:
"Pete, you heard me say something just now about my father being held
for ransom. I believe you are my friend." Gabby Pete nodded
violently. "Well, forget what you heard. If anybody asks you, remember
that father has gone East on business."
"Sure, boy," said Pete. "I'm a tombstone. Well, me an' Angel Face
here," and he slapped his horse affectionately, whereat Angel Face
reared and pranced, giving the lie to her name, "we may as well git
started fur camp so's to feed you when you arriv."
Jack laid a restraining hand on Pete's knee. "Wait just a minute,
Pete. Do you know where the Calomares ranch is located?"
Pete nodded. "Aw, sure," he said, "that must be Don Fernandez y
Calomares, down in Ol' Mexico.
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