The Spectator., 1915-10-12
THIRTEENTH INSTALlMENT
TONGUES OF FLAME.
CHAPTER xxVIII.

From the shadows of the trees on the farther side of the river, Craig with strained eyes watched Quests struggle. He saw him reach Lenora, watched him struggle to the bank with her. waited until he had lifted her on to his horse. Then he turned slowly around and faced the one coun- try in the world where freedom was still possible for him. He looked into the wall of darkness, penetrated only at one spot by little blaze of light. Slowly. with his arm through the bridle of his horse, he limped towards 1t AS he drew nearer and discovered its source, he nesitated The light came through the uncurtained win dows of saloon. three long, yellow shafts Illuminating the stunted shrubs and sandy places Craig kept in the shadow between them and drew little nearer. From inside he could hear the humping of a worn piano, the twanging of guitar, the rattle of glasses. the uproarious shout ing of men, the shrill laughter of women. The tired men and the lame horse stole reluctantly little nearer. Craig listened once more wearily. It was home he longed for so much and rest. The very thought of the place sickened him Even when he reached the door. he hesitated and in- stead of entering stood back amongst the shadows. If only he could find any other sort of shelter!
 Inside, the scene was ordinary enough. There was long bar, against which were lounging half dozen typical Mexican cowpunchers. There was small Space cleared for dancing. al the farther end of which two per formers were making weird but ve- hement music. Three girls were danc- ing with cowboys. not ungracefully considering the state of the floor and the frequent discords in the music. One of them-the prettiest-stopped abruptly and pushed her partner away from her.
 You have drunk too much. Jose!" she exclaimed. You cannot dance. You tread on my feet and you lean against me do not like 1t. I will dance with you another night when you are sober. Go away. please"
 Her cavalier swayed for moment on his feet. Then he looked down upon her with an evil glitter in his eyes. He was tall and thin, with
 
 ant looking teeth.
 "So you will not dance any longer with Jose?" he muttered. "Very we'll, you shall drink with him, then. We will sit together at one of those little tables. Listen. you shall drink wine."
 "I do not want to drink wine with you. All that I wish is to be left alone" the girl insisted, curtly. "Go and play cards. if you want to. There is Pietro over there, and Diego. Per haps you may win some money. They say that drunkards have all the luck"
 Jose leered at her
 Presently I will play cards" he said. Presently I will win all their money and I will buy jewelry for you. Marta-stones that look like diamonds and will sparkle in your neck and in your hair"
 She turned disdainfully away.
 q do not want your jewelry, Jose," she declared.
 He caught her suddenly by the wrist.
 Perhaps this is what you want" he cried, as he stopped down to kiss her
 She swung her right hand round and struck him on the face. He stag gered back for a moment. There was a red flush which showed through the tan of his cheek. Then he drew a lit- tie nearer to her. and before she could escape had passed his long arm around her body. He drew her to the chair placed by the side of the wall. His left hand played with the knife at his belt.
 Marta, little sweetheart" he said, mockingly, you must pay for that blow. Don't be afraid" he went on. as he drew the knife across his leath- CT brooches. "A little scratch across your cheek, SO! It is but the brand of your master. love token from Jose. Steady, now. little Maverick"
 The girl struggled violently, but Jose was strong; such braw1 were