His captor treated him very harshly, tying him to a tree every night, to prevent his escape, and moving him about in the day-time, from place to place, to avoid capture.

It soon became known in the settlement, that Arthur was held as a prisoner, and the search was conducted with redoubled energy.

Joaquin was constantly on the alert, but he was caught at last; for, one day, just as he and Arthur were about to sit down to their dinner of dried meat, Frank, Archie, and Johnny suddenly appeared in sight, accompanied by the two trappers.

Archie had repeatedly declared that he owed the traitor a debt, which he intended to settle the very first time he met him; but when he saw what a wretched condition Arthur was in, he relented, and pitied him from the bottom of his heart.
Joaquin was sent to San Diego to be dealt with according to law, and Arthur went home.

He did not remain there long; but, as soon as he was able to travel, started for Kentucky, and every one was glad that he had gone.
Frank and Archie could tell stories now that were worth listening to.
They had seen exciting times since their arrival in California, had been the heroes of some thrilling adventures, and they never got weary of talking over the incidents that transpired during their captivity AMONG THE RANCHEROS.
THE END.
THE JOHN C.WINSTON CO.'S POPULAR JUVENILES.
J.T.