All that night and the following day did the Rangers keep silent watch over the cave.  The second night fires were built up as before, and part of the force stood watch while the others slept on the ground with rifles for pillows.

It was not until about noon of the third day that any sign of life was observed in the cave.  Willie Jones hailed the captain, declaring that he was ready to surrender.  Terms were quickly made.  The men were to walk out singly, leaving their arms in the cave.  There was no need to caution Willie Jones as to what would follow the least sign of treachery.  He knew without being told.  Grim Rangers were standing on one side so that they should have a clear shooting space in front of them.  Billy McKay stood directly facing the opening, as if for the purpose of tempting one of those desperate men in there to take a shot at him.  None had the pluck to try it.

Jones was the first one out.  He was manacled and searched.  One by one the bandits emerged until every man was a prisoner.

That afternoon all were on their way to El Paso.  It would be many years before they would again terrorize the Rio Grande border if at all, for there were many charges against them.  Among the charges preferred against the bandits was that of aiding the Germans by stirring up trouble on the border.  Not a man confessed, but while the government was unable to prove this particular charge, it was positive that in the arrest of this desperate gang a nest of dangerous traitors had been broken up.

The entire credit for the capture was given to the two Pony Rider Boys, Tad Butler and Stacy Brown.  The Pony Rider Boys party accompanied the Rangers to El Paso, whence, later on, they continued their journey down the Rio Grande.  The boys were praised by every one for their bravery, and especially were Tad and Stacy, who had so bravely risked their own lives to save the lives of their young companions and the Rangers.

A big reward was earned by the Rangers, but at Captain McKay’s suggestion, a thousand dollars was turned over to Professor Zepplin to be divided between Tad and Chunky later on.  The professor’s protests availed him nothing.  McKay said the professor might throw the money in the gutter if he didn’t want it, so the professor sent the thousand dollars to the father of Walter Perkins.  That gentleman deposited it to the credit of the two plucky young lads, though it was some time ere they knew the existence of this special fund, all their own.

It was the last night in camp before ending their wonderful outing, and every one was solemn-eyed and thoughtful.  Their playspell was at an end and they were sad.  Tad and Ned were speaking of the war, each confiding his desire to the other, to get into the fight, and expressing his intention of doing so soon.

“Professor,” called Tad.  “We know of course how you feel on the subject, but this is a good time for us all to make our confessions, on this the last night of our season’s outing, and know where we stand on the war.”