The common language,
hatred of the Americans, the hospitality to criminals of their
blood, and the admiration of the sullen natives for these bravos,
prevent any dependence on the Mexican population.
The pursuers have often failed because of lack of supplies, and
worn-out steeds. The villains are secretly refitted by those who
harbor them. An hour suffices to drive up the "caballada," and
remount the bandits at any friendly interior ranch.
Obstinate silence is all the roadside dwellers' return to questions.
Valois cons over the bloody record of the last two years. The
desperate crimes begin with Andres Armijo and Tomas Maria Carrillo.
They were unyielding ex-soldiers. Both of these have been run to
earth. Salamon Pico, an independent bandit, of native blood, follows
the same general career. John Irving, a renegade American, has
held the southern part of the State. With his followers, he murdered
General Bean and others. He was only an outcast foreigner.
Maxime Valois knows that Irving and his band have been butchered
by savage Indians near the Colorado. Yet none of these have killed
for mere lust of blood. This mysterious chieftain who murders for
personal vengeance, is soon known to the determined Louisianian.
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