On hands and feet the boys began running rapidly over the ground, on
down into a narrow gulch. If they could gain the opposite side they
would be safe, as it was unlikely that the Indians would follow them
there. To do so, the boys were obliged to cross an open space. They
had just reached it, when their pursuers appeared behind them. Once
more the Indians raised their rifles, their fingers exerting a gentle
pressure on the triggers.

CHAPTER IV

ON THE TRAIL OF JUAN

"Look out! They're going to shoot!" cried Tad.

The lads quickly rolled in opposite directions.

"Hallo-o, Tad!"

The call was in the stentorian voice of Professor Zepplin, to which
Ned Rector added a shout of his own.

Fearing that some ill had befallen Tad and Stacy, the others had
started out after them. Following them came Walter and the lazy
Mexican.

"We're down here! Look out for the Indians!" warned Tad in a loud
voice.

"You're crazy!" jeered Ned. "Come out of that. What ails you fellows?
The dinner's stone cold and Professor Zepplin is all in the stew."