What I meant to say was not 'war lord,' but--but--" "Over lord ?" suggested Reade, politely.
"Ah, yes! Perhaps that better expresses what I mean.

In Mexico we have laws, senor, to be sure.

But they are not for _caballeros_ like myself--not for men who can boast of the blood of Spanish hidalgos.

I am master over these people for many miles around.
Absolute master! Think you any judge would dare sign a process against me, and send _peon_ officers of the law to interfere with me?
No! As I tell you, I, Luis Montez, am the sole master here among the mountains.

We have laws for the _peons_ (working class), but I--I make my own laws." "Does it take much of your time, may I ask ?" "Does what take much of my time ?" repeated Senor Montez, again looking puzzled.
"Law making," explained Tom Reade.
Montez shot a swift look at the young engineer.