shot or hanged."

"I don't remember any of them things," said the Panther grimly. "What I
do remember is that we are Texans fightin' fur our rights. To hang a man
you've first got to catch him, an' to shoot him you've first got to hit
him. An' since things are to be remembered, remember that what you are
tryin' to do to us we may first do to you. An' with that I reckon we'll
bid you good day, Mr. Urrea."

Urrea bowed, but said nothing. He rode back toward his men, and Ned and
the Panther returned to the grove. Roylston was much better that morning
and he was able to stand, leaning against a tree.

"May I ask the result of your conference," he said.

"There ain't no secret about it," replied the Panther, "but them
Mexicans seem to be almighty fond of you, Mr. Roylston."

"In what way did they show it?"

"Urrea said that all of us could go if we would give up you."

"And your answer?"

The Panther leaned forward a little on his horse.

"You know something about the Texans, don't you, Mr. Roylston?"

"I have had much opportunity to observe and study them."