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Rh "No, we are private citizens and want to learn something of business matters. Our fathers belong to the firm of Raymond, Holbrook & Smith, of Manila, Hong Kong, San Francisco, and other cities."

"I know the name, señor," and Wamba nodded. "But the business must be ruined now," and he gave a deep sigh.

"That is what we want to see. Will you undertake to get us into Manila? Remember, I will pay you well."

"I will do what I can, but it will be a dangerous undertaking."

The talk between the native and Dan continued for some time, and then we hurried on, leaving the trail and passing over the wet ground of a rice field recently flooded.

It was again hot, and after half an hour of traveling I was glad enough to cast myself in a shady spot to rest. While Dan did the same Wamba went off in search of cool water from a nearby spring.

"I suppose things in Manila are in a state of high excitement," observed my chum, as he lay back against a tree. "The Spaniards are in a box—with the American fleet in front and the rebels behind."

"I think they would rather surrender to us than to the rebels, Dan."