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diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d7b82bc --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,4 @@ +*.txt text eol=lf +*.htm text eol=lf +*.html text eol=lf +*.md text eol=lf diff --git a/LICENSE.txt b/LICENSE.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6312041 --- /dev/null +++ b/LICENSE.txt @@ -0,0 +1,11 @@ +This eBook, including all associated images, markup, improvements, +metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be +in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES. + +Procedures for determining public domain status are described in +the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org. + +No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in +jurisdictions other than the United States. Anyone seeking to utilize +this eBook outside of the United States should confirm copyright +status under the laws that apply to them. diff --git a/README.md b/README.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..012e768 --- /dev/null +++ b/README.md @@ -0,0 +1,2 @@ +Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for +eBook #68995 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/68995) diff --git a/old/68995-0.txt b/old/68995-0.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 3a9f2a6..0000000 --- a/old/68995-0.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,7804 +0,0 @@ -The Project Gutenberg eBook of The Rambler Club with the Northwest -Mounted, by W. Crispin Sheppard - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and -most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms -of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at -www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you -will have to check the laws of the country where you are located before -using this eBook. - -Title: The Rambler Club with the Northwest Mounted - -Author: W. Crispin Sheppard - -Illustrator: W. Crispin Sheppard - -Release Date: September 15, 2022 [eBook #68995] - -Language: English - -Produced by: David Edwards, David E. Brown, and the Online Distributed - Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This file was - produced from images generously made available by The - Internet Archive) - -*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE RAMBLER CLUB WITH THE -NORTHWEST MOUNTED *** - - -[Illustration: HE WAVED HIS HAND] - - - - - The Rambler Club - with the - Northwest Mounted - - BY W. CRISPIN SHEPPARD - - AUTHOR OF - - “THE RAMBLER CLUB AFLOAT” - “THE RAMBLER CLUB’S WINTER CAMP” - “THE RAMBLER CLUB IN THE MOUNTAINS” - “THE RAMBLER CLUB ON CIRCLE T RANCH” - “THE RAMBLER CLUB AMONG THE LUMBERJACKS” - “THE RAMBLER CLUB’S GOLD MINE” - “THE RAMBLER CLUB’S AEROPLANE” - “THE RAMBLER CLUB’S HOUSE-BOAT” - “THE RAMBLER CLUB’S MOTOR CAR” - “THE RAMBLER CLUB’S BALL NINE” - “THE RAMBLER CLUB’S FOOTBALL TEAM” - - Illustrated by the Author - - [Illustration] - - THE PENN PUBLISHING COMPANY - PHILADELPHIA - MCMXIV - - - - - COPYRIGHT - 1914 BY - THE PENN - PUBLISHING - COMPANY - - - - -Introduction - - -When Bob Somers and his four friends, of Kingswood, Wisconsin, formed -the Rambler Club they probably had little idea of the numerous and -exciting adventures which were before them. These are related in: “The -Rambler Club Afloat,” “The Rambler Club’s Winter Camp,” “The Rambler -Club in the Mountains,” “The Rambler Club on Circle T Ranch,” “The -Rambler Club Among the Lumberjacks,” “The Rambler Club’s Gold Mine,” -“The Rambler Club’s Aeroplane,” “The Rambler Club’s House-boat,” “The -Rambler Club’s Motor Car,” and “The Rambler Club’s Ball Nine.” - -The present book carries them to the great Northwest Territories, -patrolled by that famous body of men known as the Royal Northwest -Mounted Police. Their intention was to camp out, to see the country, -and to meet their old-time friend, Jed Warren, of Circle T Ranch, -Wyoming, who had become a member of the force. The lads’ plans, -however, are thoroughly disarranged at the start by an unwelcome -surprise, and their energies are immediately turned into other -channels. They do see a great deal of the country, and are also mixed -up with some of the affairs of the “riders of the plains.” In a great -measure this is brought about through the agency of big blond Larry -Burnham; and the astonishing events which follow an apparently trivial -occurrence surprise the lads as much as they do the Royal Northwest -Mounted. - -In “The Rambler Club’s Football Eleven” is told the interesting -experiences of the club at the Wentworth Preparatory School. Here, -again, many unexpected things take place. - - W. CRISPIN SHEPPARD. - - - - -Contents - - - I. AT THE BARRACKS 9 - - II. “WHERE IS JED WARREN?” 22 - - III. TEDDY BANES 39 - - IV. IN THE SADDLE 49 - - V. THE INDIAN VILLAGE 62 - - VI. BILLY ASHE 78 - - VII. THE FIRST CAMP 90 - - VIII. THE STAMPEDE 105 - - IX. LARRY HAS A PLAN 117 - - X. FOOL’S CASTLE 126 - - XI. THE RIDER 136 - - XII. TOM FOLLOWS 145 - - XIII. SMUGGLERS 157 - - XIV. LARRY’S COURAGE 167 - - XV. CAPTURED 178 - - XVI. THE LOADED WAGON 188 - - XVII. THE WHOLE CROWD 199 - - XVIII. ASKING QUESTIONS 209 - - XIX. BOB RIDES ALONE 219 - - XX. THE RANCH-HOUSE 235 - - XXI. LOST 251 - - XXII. A CRY FOR HELP 262 - - XXIII. BILLY ASHE IS DISAPPOINTED 270 - - XXIV. THE PRISONER 281 - - XXV. EVERYBODY HAPPY 299 - - XXVI. FACING THE SERGEANT 303 - - - - -Illustrations - - - PAGE - - “SORRY YOU’RE GOING SO SOON, BOYS” _Frontispiece_ - - “HOW DO YOU DO?” 67 - - “GOOD LUCK, OLD BOY” 147 - - THE WHOLE CROWD WAS THERE 203 - - HE LOOKED UP AT THE MAN 273 - - - - -The Rambler Club Among the Northwest Mounted - - - - -CHAPTER I - -AT THE BARRACKS - - -Sergeant Jarvis Erskine of the Royal Northwest Mounted Police, -stationed at a lonely outpost barracks, was hard at work on his -headquarters’ report. Occasionally the sergeant, a tall, spare man -with a military bearing, stopped to stroke his iron-gray moustache, -while a serious expression now and again seemed to creep into his keen, -deep-set eyes. He glanced toward his lone companion, Teddy Banes, a -half-breed, who sat so motionless in a shadowed corner of the room as -to give the impression that he was enjoying a doze. - -Teddy Banes, often employed by the police as a trail-breaker and scout, -had on many occasions rendered valuable assistance to the “riders of -the plains.” And though his sullen, morose nature prevented him from -being a favorite, he possessed the confidence and esteem of the men at -the post. - -“Banes,” exclaimed Sergeant Erskine, finally breaking the monotonous -silence which the ticking of the clock and the rustling of the breeze -had served to render oppressive, “I’m afraid this is bad business.” -With his pen half poised in the air, he turned once more to the -half-breed, his eyes running over the long, lean form huddled up in the -chair. “I say this is bad business,” repeated the sergeant, in a louder -key. “One of the most promising young men on the force! I don’t like to -think it, but----” - -For the first time, Teddy Banes stirred, shifting his position so that -the light fell full across his swarthy, large-featured face and long -black hair. - -“Yes, a bad business, sergeant,” he echoed. “He gone. No one ever see -him more. He--what you call him--deserter.” - -The palm of the sergeant’s hand came down upon his desk with a bang. - -“Aye! It looks that way, man. And a fine, well-built chap he was, too.” - -“Bad man scare him, maybe,” said the half-breed, sinking back into his -former position. - -“Jed Warren didn’t look like a chap who could be easily frightened,” -answered Erskine, with a negative shake of his head. “It’s a most -unfortunate affair--a mystery that the Northwest Mounted Police are -going to solve in mighty short order.” - -The explosive force with which the sergeant uttered these words seemed -to have the effect of jerking Teddy Banes to his feet. He began to pace -slowly to and fro, his gaunt shadow trailing fantastically over the -floor and walls of the sturdy log cabin. - -“He is not the first who has crossed the United States border and never -come back,” he exclaimed, “and----” - -“Aye, that’s so,” agreed the military-looking sergeant, “but, somehow, -I can’t believe it of Warren. He should have reported here at least a -week ago.” - -“For sure,” grunted Banes. - -“Of course a good many things could happen to a trooper in a vast -country like this, but a man of his intelligence ought certainly to -have been able to get some word to the post.” - -Teddy Banes came to a halt in front of one of the windows and gazed -reflectively out into the black, gloomy night. Borne over the air, -blending in with the sighing breeze and faint whisperings of grasses -and leaves, came the musical chirping of crickets, or the occasional -cry of some nocturnal bird. - -“Guess we never know,” he said, laconically. - -Sergeant Erskine made no reply, but an uplifting of his eyebrows and -a sudden tightening of his lips indicated that he did not agree with -Teddy Banes’ views. - -For fully ten minutes neither man spoke. Then the sergeant looked -toward the half-breed, who had resumed his place in the chair. “Banes,” -he said, abruptly, “what in thunder is the matter with you?” - -“Matter with me!” echoed Teddy. “What you mean?” - -“Why don’t you say something, instead of sitting there like a bronze -statue?” - -“Me?--I got nothings to say.” - -“What are you thinking about, then?” - -“What I think about?” - -“Yes. I can’t stand a man sitting around looking into space. It gets on -my nerves. But if you’re trying to think out a solution of this little -affair I’ll forgive you.” The sergeant, having finished his report, -rose to his feet and strode across the floor, his tall, erect form -coming to a halt before the half-breed. “Teddy,” he said, “you’ve done -some pretty good work for the police, and in the job that’s ahead of us -you must do your share.” - -“Why for you ask that, sergeant?” queried the other. The monotonous -tone of his voice rose slightly. “Always I work hard for the police. Me -the best frien’ they have; they the best frien’s I have.” - -“Correct,” answered the sergeant, with a short laugh. - -A strict disciplinarian, Sergeant Jarvis Erskine, a man whom all -his subordinates highly respected and liked, yet feared, had always -treated the scout with a consideration which often excited the envy and -wonder of the troopers at the post; and while his stern presence and -penetrating voice may have sometimes awed them it never seemed to have -that effect upon the imperturbable, sullen Teddy Banes. - -The officer turned on his heel and opened the door, to let a flood of -light pour out for a short distance over the ground. To his left he saw -the men’s quarters, still illuminated, and faintly heard the sound of -their voices. A dim yellow beam shone from one of the stable windows, -but beyond and on all sides contours and forms were lost in the -darkness of the night. The pine-clad hill to the north might as well -have been a part of the sky for all that could be seen of its bold, -rugged sides, which dropped abruptly to the plain. Between the rifts of -cloud, now beginning to break away, a few stars beamed brightly upon -the earth. - -To the grizzled and seasoned veteran of the Royal Mounted Police the -uninspiring sight made no impression, and the sudden and peculiar -manner with which he stepped outside the door was not caused by any -phenomenon of nature. - -“Banes,” he called sharply, “come here!” - -The lethargic movements of the scout seemed suddenly to desert him. A -few long strides took him to the officer’s side. - -“Banes”--the sergeant spoke with curious intensity--“listen!” - -“Ah, you have hear something, sergeant?” - -“Yes--most assuredly,” answered Erskine. “All the men are at quarters, -yet that thick blackness out there hides either one man or several. -Perhaps Jed Warren is----” - -“No, me think not,” interrupted Banes. “For sure he crossed the line. -No--never see him more.” - -The half-breed paused, for his keen ears had suddenly detected the -sound of human voices. True they were so faint and partly swallowed -up in the breeze that only a man whose ears were trained by long -experience would have noticed them. - -“They were louder than that before, Banes,” exclaimed the sergeant. - -“Wonder who it be?” - -“Evidently some one who isn’t afraid of traveling on a dark night.” - -“They come this way, I think.” - -“I only hope it’s Jed Warren, or some one with a message from him. -This is not quite the hour for receiving visitors.” Erskine chuckled -audibly. “Still, my suspicions are always roused when men pass by the -brightly-lighted barracks of the police without stopping in to say -howdy-do.” - -“Yes; for they sure come this way,” said Teddy Banes. “One, two, -three--four, maybe.” - -“Yes; and mounted, as every respectable man ought to be in a country -like this. I’ll stake my month’s pay I heard the neigh of a horse.” - -“For sure. I hear him, too.” - -Straining all their faculties the two stepped from the bright light -which issued from the open door and windows into the gloom beyond. For -some time neither uttered a sound. But, at length, as the voices which -had so aroused their curiosity were no longer heard, Sergeant Erskine -spoke up: - -“I’ve a good mind to saddle my horse and take a run out on the prairie.” - -The half-breed grunted a monosyllable. - -“Since Jed Warren’s unaccountable disappearance,” went on the sergeant, -“I am more particular than ever to look over every one who passes this -way.” - -“You take lantern then, I s’pose?” said Teddy Banes, a touch of sarcasm -in his tone. - -The sergeant laughed dryly. - -“Quite good, Banes,” he said. “Ah! Did you hear that?” - -“Certain I hear him,” answered the half-breed. - -“I reckon you are right, Banes. They seem to be headed this way. From -the prairie these barracks must shine like a constellation.” - -“Nobody could miss him but one who wants to,” remarked Teddy, sagely. - -“I’m still hoping Jed Warren may be among that party.” - -“No--no!” - -“What makes you so confounded sure about it, Banes? Why in thunder do -you always insist he’s a deserter?” - -“Why?” echoed Teddy, sharply. “How many times you say same thing?” - -“Well, suppose I have? I won’t believe it until it’s proved. Guess it -isn’t necessary to saddle up, Banes. That bunch out there is coming -nearer every minute.” - -The sound of voices was certainly growing louder, while occasionally -the hoof-beats of horses easily overcame the whisperings and sighings -of nature. - -For a long time no visitors had been at the post. Now and again a ranch -owner or some of his men stopped in to while away a few hours at the -barracks; and all received a generous welcome at the lonely outpost -station, where the police sometimes grew tired of always seeing only -one another’s faces. - -Within a short time the noise made by the advancing riders grew to -such proportions that several troopers hurried out of the mess room -to join their commanding officer. And the rays of light which flashed -across their forms showed them to be strong, athletic-looking chaps who -carried themselves as erect as any soldiers in the Dominion. - -It was quite evident that all were full of curiosity, even eagerness, -to let their eyes rest upon the newcomers; and the steady progress with -which the latter were now approaching made it quite certain that their -wishes would soon be gratified. - -“It sounds like a pretty big crowd,” remarked Trooper Farr to Jack -Stanford. - -“’Tain’t often around here that so many’s travelin’ together.” - -“Maybe they’re from Cummin’s ranch, to tell us the cattle rustlers have -done a couple more jobs,” said Stanford. - -“Or perhaps Jed Warren has rounded up that band of smugglers he was -after an’ is bringin’ ’em in single-handed,” laughed Phil Cole. - -Several minutes passed while the men busily conjectured and theorized. -Then, from out of the shadows, there appeared a number of dusky patches -so blended and lost in the surrounding darkness that only the sharpest -eyes could have detected the forms of horses and riders. - -“Stanford,” commanded Sergeant Erskine, “go back to the mess room, get -a lantern and hurry down to the gate. Those chaps are going to miss -it by more than a few yards; and we won’t ask ’em to hurdle over the -fence.” - -“If Stanford isn’t quick they may ride into it and bump their noses,” -said Cole, pleasantly. - -Stanford was quick, however. He almost immediately returned with a -lighted lantern, which sent curious streaks and dashes of yellow rays -darting in all directions, then, followed by Trooper Farr, walked -rapidly toward the gate. - -Sergeant Erskine and the others waited and watched with the keenest -interest. - -Suddenly they heard a loud hail from the distance and an answering -salutation from Stanford. - -It was quite the most unusual event which had happened at the post for -several months; and those standing close to the barracks experienced a -feeling of satisfaction when they heard the gate beginning to creak. - -And now from the direction of the swinging lantern came the sound -of clear, lusty voices, with the heavier tones of Stanford and Farr -joining in. - -It soon became evident from bits of conversation which were carried -crisply over the air that the visitors had not stumbled accidentally -upon police headquarters. Even Sergeant Erskine, whose stern exterior -seldom reflected emotion of any sort, felt a rather curious thrill when -he heard Jed Warren’s name pronounced by various voices. - -“Ah, Banes, I reckon we’re going to have some news from him after all,” -he remarked. - -The half-breed made no answer. All the intensity of his small black -eyes was fixed in the direction of the gate, where the body of horsemen -were now filing in. On they came, galloping across the grounds with an -abandon that showed them to be skilful riders. - -An instant later the friendly lights of the barracks plucked forms and -faces from the obscurity. And even Sergeant Erskine allowed a slight -gasp of surprise to escape him when he noted that the travelers, -instead of being the troop of hardy men he had expected to see, were -but a healthy-looking lot of lads. - - - - -CHAPTER II - -“WHERE IS JED WARREN?” - - -“Is Sergeant Erskine of the Royal Mounted Police here?” - -All the boys had swung from the saddle, and one of their number, -advancing toward the grinning and astonished members of the police, had -asked the question. - -“Great Scott!” murmured Cole. “What does this mean?--a lot o’ kids!” - -“I am Sergeant Erskine,” answered the officer. His eyes ran over his -questioner, taking in every detail of the well-set, sturdy figure which -stood before him. “Who are you, and where do you come from?” - -A very tall lad, looming up behind the first speaker, took it upon -himself to answer. - -“We’re the Rambler Club of Wisconsin,” he said, in a tone which seemed -to indicate that he felt this announcement ought to create an enormous -sensation. - -“The Rambler Club of Wisconsin!” exclaimed Sergeant Erskine, while -several loud guffaws came from his men. “Who are they?” - -“My name is Bob Somers,” began the lad who had spoken first, “and----” - -“Bob Somers!” interrupted Sergeant Erskine. “Well--a light breaks in -upon me, as the fellow in the only play I ever saw remarked. If I -haven’t heard Jed Warren mention your name about fifty times I won’t -take the next furlough that’s coming to me.” - -“What’s this we hear about Jed Warren having disappeared?” demanded the -tall lad, abruptly. - -“Yes, I know all about you chaps now,” said Erskine, without heeding -this remark. “You boys exchanged a lot of letters with Jed. He told me -he’d asked you to come out.” - -“And we’re here,” said the tall member of the group. - -“Said you could have lots of fun in the Northwest Territories camping -out, hobnobbing with an occasional policeman or ranch owner.” - -“And perhaps incidentally rounding up a bunch of smugglers or cattle -rustlers,” snickered Farr. - -“Hey?” said the big boy, quite fiercely. - -“Well, Ramblers,” continued the sergeant, “I’m sorry you came all this -way to meet with disappointment. Your friend is not here, and we don’t -know when he will be.” - -A chorus of remarks and questions which immediately began to flow from -the lads was cut short by a wave of Sergeant Erskine’s big hand. - -“Easy, boys, easy,” he counseled. Then, turning to Farr, he asked: -“Who’s on stable duty to-night?” - -“Stephen Stevens, sir,” answered the trooper. - -“Well, tell him to take charge of the horses. Now, boys,” he added, -“come inside. I suppose you must be pretty tired. How long have you -been in the saddle?” - -“Ever since early this morning,” answered the tall Rambler. “Tired! Oh, -I guess not. I’m good for another twenty mile jaunt. You see we’re used -to this sort of thing, and----” - -“Tom Clifton is the greatest fellow that ever happened outside the -covers of a story book,” came in a drawling voice from some one. -“Never gets tired; never gets sleepy. He could look a grizzly bear in -the face without even winking. It’s a wonder to me that----” - -“Oh, cut it all out, Larry Burnham,” snapped the other. “I wasn’t born -lazy, for one thing. Are we coming in? Yes, sergeant; right away.” - -As they fell in behind Erskine’s tall, erect figure the troopers led -their tired mounts toward the stables. - -On two sides of the barracks were long benches, and upon these six lads -were soon seated comfortably. - -“Sergeant Erskine,” began Bob Somers, “we’ve heard a good deal about -you from Jed. Now I’ll introduce the crowd.” - -The “crowd” promptly stood up, while Bob Somers, with a wave of his -hand toward each, in a delightfully informal fashion, made known their -names. - -“Dave Brandon,” he said, indicating a stout, round-faced lad; “Tom -Clifton”--his hand dropped on the tall boy’s wrist; “Sam Randall; Dick -Travers, and Larry Burnham.” - -“Last and least,” murmured Tom, sotto voce. - -“A most promising football player,” went on Bob, “who thought he’d like -to take a little jaunt out to the Northwest Territories with us.” - -“That’s putting it pretty mild, Bob,” snickered Tom Clifton. “If Larry -didn’t coax and plead to come along I’ll----” - -“Just listen to the little story-book hero!” growled Larry, in accents -of disgust. “It’s a wonder I ever got his permission, I’m sure.” - -“See here, fellows,” interposed Bob Somers, “we haven’t found out yet -why Jed isn’t here.” - -“That’s so,” cried Tom. “Those chaps who met us at the gate didn’t say -very much, but what they did say sounded kind of queer.” - -“I should sort o’ think it did,” agreed Larry Burnham. - -All the boys had reseated themselves except the latter; and, as the -sergeant’s eyes rested on his six feet of solid bone and muscle, he -thought to himself that, for physique, he had never seen a better -specimen than the blond youth before him. But he also noticed a -curious droop in Larry’s mouth and a generally dissatisfied expression -on his face which seemed to indicate that the “promising football -player” might not be a very pleasant companion to have around. - -“I say, sergeant, where is Jed Warren?” inquired Tom Clifton, who -possessed a remarkably gruff voice. - -“He gone, an’ no one ever see him more,” exclaimed Teddy Banes, -abruptly. - -“Gone!--gone from the post?” gasped Tom Clifton. “What in thunder do -you mean? Why, we got a letter from Jed just a short time ago telling -us what a dandy time we could have out here!” - -“Perhaps Sergeant Erskine will be willing to explain,” interposed -Dave Brandon, who, with his eyes half shut, was leaning in a most -comfortable position against the wall. - -“Not the least objection, I’m sure,” answered Erskine, drawing a chair -up before the group and seating himself. “You see, quite recently -a slick band of smugglers has begun operations in this part of the -country, and though we’ve been pretty hot on their trail at times, -somehow they’ve always managed to elude us. Banes knows all about it, -don’t you, Banes?” - -“Eh--what you mean?” demanded Banes, coming a step forward, his morose, -bronzed face turned full upon his questioner. - -“What I say,” laughed Erskine. “I guess you’ll get mixed up in a tussle -with them yet, Banes. But I can see by your faces, boys, that you’re in -suspense. So here’s the story.” - -“Please do let us have it fast,” said Tom. - -“I will, son. Jed Warren was sent off on a special assignment to trace -up several clues which we felt certain would finally land the smugglers -in our net.” - -“Well?” queried Tom. - -“He had strict orders to report on a certain date. And that date was -passed more than a week ago.” - -“Gee whiz!” exclaimed Tom. - -“I suppose, sergeant, you’ve sent out men to look for him?” drawled -Dave Brandon. - -“Your supposition is quite correct,” answered Erskine. “We have means -of tracing people, and our men kept on Warren’s trail until a certain -point was reached. Then--well--the man was nowhere to be found--he had -vanished.” - -“Some accident must have happened to him,” exclaimed Sam Randall. “We -met Jed on the plains of Wyoming, and you couldn’t find a straighter, -squarer fellow than he.” - -“I’ll subscribe to that,” put in Bob Somers. - -“When anybody says anything good about Jed Warren I’ll agree to it,” -remarked Dick Travers. - -“Never having seen the hero I can’t say,” drawled Larry Burnham, with -a sidelong glance at Tom. “But I’ve heard enough about him to make me -think he’s a wonder.” - -“You’re as sour as you are big,” growled Tom. - -“Go on, sergeant; please finish your story,” pleaded Dick Travers. - -“I don’t know about any accident happening to Warren,” resumed the -sergeant, “for we pretty soon struck a clue which makes things look bad -for him.” - -“What!--How?” cried Tom Clifton, springing to his feet. - -A ripple of exclamations came from the others. Sergeant Erskine -surveyed them gravely. - -“Just this: his horse was recovered on the other side of the -international border. It had evidently been turned loose. What do you -make out of that?” - -“Never see him more,” exclaimed Teddy Banes. - -“You mean to say that Jed--Jed Warren--is a deserter?” demanded Bob -Somers, incredulously. - -“We let the facts speak for themselves,” answered Erskine. “If you were -not such particular friends of his I might tell you that the Mounted -Police are not accustomed to discuss their affairs with strangers, -but----” - -“Of course we understand,” said Dave Brandon. - -“What are the facts? Just these: It takes a man of resourcefulness -and iron nerve to work on the kind of a case we put into Jed Warren’s -hands.” - -“Jed has both,” broke in Tom Clifton. - -The sergeant inclined his head, then resumed: - -“At any rate, we have reliable evidence that your friend was last seen -near the international boundary line. The next piece of information -which came to us is the declaration of a border patrol who says Warren -told him he was disgusted with the job.” - -“I can’t believe Jed Warren is a deserter!” fairly exploded Tom -Clifton. His eyes were flashing. “It’s all ridiculous!” - -“Don’t get excited, Tom,” counseled Larry Burnham. - -“Why do you think for an instant he’d have asked us to come out here if -he intended to desert?” - -“Perhaps you will give us your views on the subject,” said Sergeant -Erskine, with a quizzical light in his eye. - -“Do, Tom; let’s have ’em,” drawled Larry. - -“All I’ve got to say is this,” declared Tom, hotly: “that no one could -ever get me to believe Jed Warren is that sort of a chap--no sir!” - -“You wrong, then,” interrupted Teddy Banes. “Bah! You know nothings.” - -The tall lad turned upon him wrathfully. - -“And what do you know?” he demanded. - -“What I know? You ask him.” The half-breed’s bony finger was pointed -directly at Erskine. - -“Teddy Banes is one of the best scouts the police ever employed,” -explained the sergeant. “The coyote hasn’t much on him when it comes -to following trails. When he thinks a man has crossed the border -line I’m pretty well satisfied he has; and Banes”--Erskine paused -impressively--“says he doesn’t see how the evidence could mean anything -else.” - -“Goodness gracious! It seems to me we’re always running into some sort -of a mystery,” sighed the stout boy, whose eyes were now wide open. - -“That’s so. When we’re around something is always happening,” said Dick -Travers. - -“And, from what Tom Clifton says, I should judge the Rambler Club is -one of the greatest mystery-solving organizations in America,” gurgled -Larry Burnham. - -“Oh, but you do make me tired, Larry,” burst out Tom, darting an angry -look at the big blond boy. “But I can tell you this”--he stopped an -instant to give his words added effect--“we came up in Canada to camp -out, and to see the country; but I vote that we get busy on this case, -and--and--help to solve it.” - -To Tom’s intense indignation, the usually quiet and undemonstrative -Larry began to roar with laughter. He slapped his knees, poked Dave -Brandon violently in the ribs, and ended up his outburst by slapping -Dick Travers on the shoulder. - -“I thought so; I thought so!” he cried. “Think of his nerve, -fellows--talking that way before an officer of the Royal Mounted -Police! If they can’t solve the mystery Tom’ll do it for ’em. Now I -sort o’ think the sergeant ought to be pleased.” - -“Oh, get out!” scoffed Tom, a trifle disconcerted to find the stern, -deep-set eyes of Sergeant Erskine leveled full upon him. “Do you -suppose we’re going to sit around and do nothing while Jed is suspected -of being a deserter? Well, I guess not!” - -“What you do?” demanded Banes, with a guttural laugh. - -“You’ll find out one of these days,” answered Tom. - -The sergeant’s eyes were beginning to twinkle. - -“I had no idea we were to receive a visit from so highly trained a -body,” he remarked, with a tinge of sarcasm in his tones. “Candidly, my -curiosity’s aroused: tell me something about yourselves, and how you -were able to find your way to our barracks on a dark night like this.” - -“Dave Brandon is our historian,” laughed Bob. “Speak up, Dave, and -oblige the sergeant.” - -Dave protested; he tried to pass along the honor. But, by unanimous -vote, the others overruled him. So the “historian,” with a sigh, began. - -It was quite a long story that Sergeant Erskine heard, and frequently a -slight smile played about his mouth. At times he asked questions, too, -which brought a snapping light into Tom Clifton’s eyes, for they seemed -to indicate doubt on the part of the speaker. - -“Well, well,” he exclaimed finally, leaning back in his chair and -fumbling a heavy watch fob which hung from his pocket. “’Pon my word, -it’s quite remarkable! What do you think of it, Banes?” - -“Not much. I think nothings of it,” answered the half-breed, surlily. -“It is like the big wind in the trees which makes a noise and nothing -more.” - -Erskine came as near to laughing as he ever did, while Larry Burnham -immediately went into another paroxysm of mirth. - -“A corking good simile,” he exclaimed. “How about it, Tom? For -goodness’ sake, don’t look so mad.” - -“Who’s mad?” sneered Tom. - -“You mustn’t mind Teddy Banes,” said Sergeant Erskine. “He generally -speaks his mind pretty freely. So you steered your way here by the aid -of maps and a compass, eh?” - -“But it was only by good luck that we managed to hit it right,” -remarked Dave, modestly. - -“Our field-glass helped some, too,” supplemented Bob. “You see, we -reached the summit of a hill--it was a mighty long way from here, too; -but the instrument obligingly picked out these lights.” - -“So we guessed they must come from either a ranch-house or a barracks,” -finished Tom. - -“An’ it wasn’t any easy job to keep steerin’ in the right direction,” -interposed Larry Burnham. “We got mixed up so often that I began to -think we were in for another little snooze under the stars.” - -“Well, boys, you’re all right,” said Erskine, heartily. “I can see that -your outdoor life has made you self-reliant, anyway. There’s plenty of -room for you over in the men’s quarters, so I invite the crowd to stay.” - -“An’ I sort o’ think we’ll accept,” drawled Larry. “Outdoor life may -make a chap self-reliant, but it can also give him a confounded lot of -aches an’ pains.” - -“Humph!” sniffed Tom, “you’re not seasoned yet.” - -“I’m seasoned enough to get pretty hot at times,” growled Larry. - -“How long you stay here?” demanded Teddy Banes, suddenly. - -“We won’t get back over the boundary line until this Jed Warren affair -is settled,” answered Tom, firmly. - -“Bah! You can do nothings. It makes me laugh.” - -“Well, laugh, then,” retorted Tom. “I guess we won’t mind.” - -“It seems pretty certain that I shall have to do some more writing in -that book of mine,” Dave Brandon was saying to Bob Somers. - -“And I guess that means another serial for the Kingswood High School -‘Reflector,’” said Larry Burnham. “What’s that, sergeant--do we want -a bite to eat? No, thanks. We’ve had our canned goods, salt pork and -other delicacies.” - -“And I’m uncommonly glad to have found a good place to rest,” said -Dave. “A thousand thanks, sergeant.” - -Erskine nodded. - -“You’re more than welcome,” he said. He turned toward Sam Randall, who -had asked a question in regard to the duties and work of the Royal -Northwest Mounted Police. “Yes; I don’t mind telling you something -about it,” he answered. - -Erskine was so disarmed by the liveliness and hearty good spirits of -the crowd that his usually severe and frigid demeanor unconsciously -slipped away. - -So the boys soon learned many interesting things about the hardships -and dangers which often confront the police. As Dave said, it was -very delightful to sit in the comfortable barracks and listen to tales -which often thrilled. Each member of the group, however, would have -felt a great deal more lighthearted but for their disappointment at -not meeting Jed Warren and the added feeling of apprehension which his -strange absence caused. - - - - -CHAPTER III - -TEDDY BANES - - -After their many hours in the saddle the lads spent a comfortable -night in the men’s quarters. True, Dave Brandon and Larry Burnham were -the only ones fortunate enough to have bunks; but the other “seasoned -veterans of mountains and plains,” as Larry facetiously dubbed them, -rolled themselves up in blankets and slept as soundly as though in -their own bedrooms at home. - -On the following morning all were astir soon after the beams of light -from the rising sun began to trace their cheerful course over the -somber walls. They met two other troopers besides Stanford, Farr and -Cole, and each declared himself heartily pleased to see the visitors. - -“I hope to thunder you’re going to hang around here for a while, boys,” -said Stanford, as they all sat at a long table in the mess room eating -breakfast. - -“Can’t,” answered Tom Clifton, laconically. - -“Why not?” - -“Well, you see, we’ve got to hunt for Jed Warren.” - -“Tom is bound to give some pointers to the Mounted Police,” remarked -Larry, with his usual drawl. - -“Don’t try to be funny,” snapped Tom. - -“You’re the only one around here that’s funny,” said the “promising -football player,” with conviction. - -“It’s too early in the morning to start scrapping, fellows,” laughed -Dave. “What’s the program for to-day, Bob?” - -“Of course I agree with Larry that it’s all nonsense for us to expect -to beat the police at their own game,” began Bob. “Still----” - -“Still what?” interposed Tom, with a toss of his head. - -“Sergeant Erskine was good enough to tell me the direction in which Jed -was going. He gave me a lot of other clues, too, which may help us to -follow him up.” - -“I knew you’d agree with my plan!” cried Tom, enthusiastically. - -“His plan!” snickered Larry. - -“Well, I’ll leave it to the crowd: didn’t I tell Sergeant Erskine last -night----” - -“Oh, yes--that the bunch was going to solve the mystery,” jeered Larry. - -“Wouldn’t make us jealous a bit if you did, I’m sure,” said Stephen -Stevens, with a hearty laugh. “Poor old Jed! He seemed to be a pretty -good sort. For my part, I don’t believe a word of all this yawp about -his deserting.” - -“Can’t say I like the way his nag was found, though,” said Cole, -shaking his head. - -“Nor me, either,” admitted Farr. - -“And Warren was certainly too good a rider to get thrown,” came from -Stanford. - -“I’m afraid Jed may have met with some serious accident,” said Sam -Randall, thoughtfully. “I do wish to thunder all this hadn’t happened. -We were going to have such dandy fun camping out.” - -“I’ve got an idea that Jed’s all right,” insisted Tom, stoutly. “Say, -fellows, what do you think? The sarge told me last night----” - -From the tone of his voice one might have supposed that Tom and the -sergeant had become the greatest of cronies. - -“What?” asked Dick Travers. - -“Jed’s a Canadian.” - -“Get out!” cried Sam Randall. - -“It’s a fact. Any of you chaps ever ask him where he came from?” - -The noes had it unanimously. - -“I knew it,” grinned Tom. “When we met Jed at Circle T Ranch in Wyoming -I always thought he was an out and out bona fide American cowboy. Gee! -A chap can’t be sure about anything--can he?” - -“You seem to be sure about everything,” chirped Larry. - -“I certainly am sure about your being the laziest fellow who ever -traveled with our crowd,” retorted Tom, witheringly. “Say, Bob, let’s -hurry up. You see, if----” - -Tom suddenly stopped, for the faint sound of a footstep just outside -reached his ears; and, on looking up, he saw a lean, muscular form -suddenly appear in the doorway, a proceeding which threw a long, gaunt -shadow over the floor. - -As the rosy morning light played across it, Teddy Banes’ swarthy face -suggested a head of bronze. - -Tom Clifton was not at all pleased. He had taken a great dislike to -the half-breed, and, somehow, felt it was cordially returned. The -man’s sullen demeanor, a peculiar glint in his eyes, and his apparent -contempt for the club inspired Tom with indignation. - -“Good-morning,” saluted Bob Somers. - -“Mornin’,” responded Teddy Banes, slipping upon his seat by the table. -“How soon you go away?” - -“Right after breakfast,” answered Bob. - -“Back to States, eh?” - -“Back to the States nothing,” sniffed Tom. - -“Why? What you do, then?” inquired Banes, fixing his dark eyes intently -upon him. - -“Don’t you worry.” - -“What you mean?” - -“That our crowd doesn’t intend to get away from Canada until we’ve -learned what happened to Jed Warren--that’s what I mean.” - -“I certainly shouldn’t like to,” said Bob, thoughtfully. - -“Shouldn’t like to! Well, for my part, I won’t!” cried Tom, -emphatically. - -His hand came down on the table with sufficient force to rattle the -dishes. - -“If necessary I suppose you’ll clear it all up alone,” teased Larry, -winking in the direction of Farr. - -The opportune appearance of the cook to serve the half-breed probably -prevented a lively wrangle between the two, for the crushing retort -which Tom was about to utter remained unspoken. - -“One thing I tells you,” remarked Banes; “in a big country like this -you boys get lost--starve, maybe.” - -“Just listen to him,” said Tom, disgustedly. “Lost!--Starve! It shows -just how much you know about us, Mr. Teddy Banes. Our crowd has -traveled a lot and been in some pretty tight places--yes, sir. We know -enough to keep out of any very bad mess.” - -“Many bad mens around here--smugglers--cattle rustlers,” continued -Banes. “They shoot, maybe--shoot to kill. You laugh! Ah! You think it -is nothings! Ask Stanford; ask Cole. Listen!”--The half-breed raised -a large brown finger in the air. “Much dangerous, I tell you again. -Warren a brave man, yet he get scared; yes--so scared he desert.” - -“No such thing!” stormed Tom. - -“An’ I say yes. Better go, or maybe you never see home again.” - -“That sounds interesting,” exclaimed Larry Burnham. “But in this -confounded big country it wouldn’t be such a hard matter to get lost, -as he says, Tom. An’ who knows but some of the chaps we’d meet might be -pretty rough characters?” - -“Oh, if you’re getting frightened,” began Tom. - -“No, I’m not getting frightened, but talking common sense. Suppose we -couldn’t find water? Or suppose, for instance----” - -“Oh, for goodness’ sake, don’t suppose any more. Fellows, let’s escort -Larry over to the nearest railroad station and see him safely aboard,” -said Tom, so disgusted that a hot flush mantled his cheek. “We don’t -want any pullbacks or kickers in this crowd.” - -“What’s the use of jawing so much?” put in Sam Randall. “Larry doesn’t -want to back out.” - -“You chaps look as if you were able to take care of yourselves,” said -Farr, “and there isn’t much danger as long as you don’t wander too far -away from the settlements or Indian villages. But as for your finding -out anything about Jed Warren!”--he laughed--“sounds rather like a joke -to me.” - -“I sort o’ think it does,” drawled Larry. - -“Your sort of thinks make me smile,” grumbled Tom. - -“I believe in action--not words,” laughed Dave Brandon. “Wake me up, -fellows, when it’s time to start.” - -“It’s time now,” cried Dick Travers, jumping to his feet. “Let’s saddle -up, boys, and hit the trail.” - -“Where for?” asked one of the troopers. - -“Sergeant Erskine told me there is a Cree village a good many miles to -the northwest of here,” answered Bob Somers, “and as he said Jed Warren -passed that way we thought we’d take it in and interview the chief.” - -“Indians!” mused Larry, reflectively. - -“Oh, you needn’t be afraid, son,” laughed Cole. “There isn’t anything -fierce or warlike about ’em; though years ago, before the herds of -buffalo had given place to long-horned cattle, they used to have some -fierce mix-ups with the Sioux and Blackfeet.” - -“I’ll be little Fear-not, with Tom Clifton along,” laughed Larry. - -“In a couple of days you no more talk like that,” grumbled Teddy Banes. -“I start for village this morning. We go together.” - -This information had the effect of putting Tom in a very bad humor -indeed. He wanted to get away from the sight of Teddy Banes’ sullen -face; and to feel that he was going to have his company all day put -a very frowning expression on his face. He was almost on the point -of objecting, but, seeing that the announcement had no effect on his -companions, refrained. - -By the time the crowd had bidden Sergeant Erskine good-bye Stephen -Stevens had the horses saddled and bridled. He saw to it, too, that the -saddle bags were well filled. - -The men who wore the scarlet jackets gathered around, as the horses, -refreshed by rest and food, impatiently pawed the ground, or sought to -pull away from restraining hands. - -“Sorry you’re going so soon, boys,” said Farr. “Before leaving the -country be sure to drop in and see us again.” - -“You can just bet we will--and perhaps we’ll bring some news, too,” -cried Tom, swinging into the saddle. “So-long, sergeant!” He waved his -hand as the commanding figure of Erskine appeared at the headquarters -door. “Whoop! Come on, fellows. The search begins.” - -With farewells flung over their shoulders, the six riders galloped -away, leaving the sullen, morose-looking Teddy Banes to follow at his -leisure. - -“Bah!” exclaimed the latter to Cole. “Make me sick. Why for you not -tell them to go away?” - -“Because I didn’t choose to,” laughed the other. “Besides, I reckon a -few days traveling about with not a soul in sight but themselves will -cure ’em of any hankerin’ to stay.” - -“For sure. They go, an’ never come back,” agreed Banes. - -And, with a surly nod which took in the entire group, he gave his reins -a jerk, in obedience to which his brown and white-patched horse began -to pound swiftly toward the gate. - - - - -CHAPTER IV - -IN THE SADDLE - - -Once out of sight of the police barracks Larry Burnham began to -question the wisdom of his course in accompanying the Ramblers to the -Northwest Territories. It was a very different matter, he reflected, to -sit in an easy chair and read about the kind of experiences they were -having than it was to be an actual participant in them. Every bone and -muscle in his big frame voiced a protest to the strain he had put on -them the day before. Then, too, they had had so many difficulties in -finding the way that the warnings of Teddy Banes began to be forced -unpleasantly on his mind. - -Suppose they did get lost? Suppose their canteens were emptied while -they were in the midst of a wild and trackless country far from any -streams or lakes?--what then? And, worst of all, suppose ill-fortune -did throw them in the path of smugglers or other dangerous characters? - -The big blond football player didn’t like to think about these things. -But, in spite of his efforts, he often found his mind going over and -over such unpleasant possibilities. - -“It strikes me as foolish business,” he murmured. “Then, Tom Clifton -always jumping on me is a trifle more’n I care to stand.” - -The sound of a horse’s hoofs rising above the steady patter of the -cavalcade caused him to look around. - -Teddy Banes was rapidly overtaking them. With a six-shooter at his -belt, a rifle resting across the pommel of his saddle, and the fringe -of his buckskin coat flapping about, he seemed, in Larry Burnham’s eyes -at least, to typify the country. - -His gaze followed the half-breed as he swung toward the head of the -column, and he could not help admiring the superb horsemanship which -every movement of his lithe body expressed. - -Although it was still early the day gave an indication of the heat that -was yet to come. Not a cloud flecked the surface of the sky, which -at the horizon became enveloped in a scintillating whitish haze that -almost dazzled the eye. - -“It certainly is a vast country,” thought Larry. He raised himself in -his stirrups to gaze in all directions. - -On every side it wore the same appearance--waving yellow bunch grass -covering an undulating prairie, with here and there a low line of hills -to break its monotonous uniformity. - -And as he gazed upon this immensity of space it seemed to forcibly -impress upon his mind the insignificance of all living things. How -small the horsemen just ahead appeared! - -“Great Scott!” he remarked, half aloud. “And yet Tom Clifton has an -idea we may be able to strike that policeman’s trail.” - -It all seemed so preposterous--so utterly without reason--that Larry -burst into a peal of laughter, somewhat to the astonishment of Dick -Travers who was cantering several yards in advance. Larry, however, -without offering an explanation, spurred up his horse, soon overtaking -Bob Somers and the half-breed at the head of the column. - -“We’re forging ahead, Bob,” he said. “And gee, I certainly do hope -we find some sort of shade by the time the mercury climbs up in the -hundreds.” - -“It’s going to be a scorcher, all right,” said Bob, cheerfully. - -“What time ought we to reach this Cree village?” - -“Late in the afternoon.” - -Larry groaned. - -“Gee whiz, Bob, I call this pretty hard work,” he groaned. “Yet I -s’pose Tom Clifton’s thinkin’ he’s having the grandest time of his -life.” - -“You bet I am,” sang out Tom, who had overheard. “There’s nothing like -having a good horse under you and plenty of space to gallop in, eh, -Bob? Besides, there’s always a chance for adventure.” - -“And if we really don’t run into a lot I’ll be surprised,” said Dave -Brandon. - -“So will I,” laughed Sam Randall. - -“Most likely there are some ranch-houses not so very far from here,” -said Tom; “and if so it means we’re likely to see big bunches of -longhorns roaming over the prairie before very long. Then, perhaps, a -smuggler or two may bob up to help make things interesting.” - -Tom glared sternly toward the half-breed, who seemed to be totally -oblivious of their presence. - -This remark, however, had the effect of bringing his head sharply -around, to reveal a curious light in his black, snappy eyes. - -“Ah, you make fun of Teddy Banes,” he growled. “But you see! How long -you been here?--few days, eh? Me lived here always; yet you know more -already.” - -“How could you expect it otherwise?” grinned Larry Burnham. “I sort o’ -think it’s Tom Clifton’s privilege to know more’n anybody else.” - -A long, low line of hills was looming up before the travelers. Here and -there a dark, scraggly tree spotted their surface, while mingling in -with the soft billowing folds of grass, which, under the effects of the -faint breeze, seemed to ripple like waves of the sea, were stretches of -purplish earth. - -“An’ beyond them I suppose it looks just like this; an’ beyond some -other hills just like this again,” grumbled Larry. “Whew, but it’s -gettin’ hot! If there’s any shade on the other side, for goodness’ sake -let’s take a rest. How do you know we’re goin’ in the right direction, -Bob Somers?” - -“By the aid of map and compass,” answered Bob. “Of course, though, -Teddy Banes knows the easiest route; so I’m leaving it to him.” - -“How far is he going with us?” - -“To the Cree village.” - -“Then me leave,” grunted the half-breed. - -As the seven horsemen cantered swiftly through the tall grass, beating -it under foot, the crest of the hills rose higher and sharper against -the sky. Instead of making directly toward them, as Larry expected, -Teddy Banes soon swerved to the left, and the blond lad finally -discovered that he was leading them toward a point where gray masses of -shadow indicated a deep cleft in the slopes. - -Eagerly he kept his eyes on the grateful shade, watching it growing -stronger with a feeling of intense satisfaction; and when at last his -sorrel picked its way into a pass cluttered with underbrush and stones -he gave a shout of approval. - -By the side of an overhanging slope the half-breed drew rein. - -“Much hot,” he said, using a gorgeously red handkerchief to mop his -perspiring face. “But this is nothings. In a few days you see.” - -“Well, I don’t think I’ll wait to see,” growled Larry. - -“This isn’t anything,” said Tom Clifton. “And I’ll bet it isn’t going -to be a bit hotter. Besides, when a chap’s on a roughing-it expedition -he’s got to expect all sorts of things.” - -“Another lecture from the scout-master,” grinned Larry. - -“And if he can’t stand ’em, and gets grumpy and sour-faced he ought to -stay at his own cozy little home.” - -“Mercy! I suppose a broadside like that ought to bowl me right over,” -said Larry. “When you get to be a doctor, Tom, you’re likely to scare -your patients into recovering fast.” - -Tom, with a shrug of his shoulders, turned toward Dave Brandon, the -first to tether his horse and find a comfortable resting place. “Why so -quiet, Dave? What are you thinking about?” he inquired. - -The chronicler of the Rambler Club’s adventures made no reply until the -others were sprawling in various attitudes in the most inviting places -they could find. Then he said, slowly: - -“Thinking about something serious, Tom.” - -“Do let your musings find expression in words,” grinned Clifton. - -“Well, you know, we graduated at the Kingswood High School last -term----” - -“Gracious sakes, I’ve been trying to forget school,” interrupted the -tall boy. - -“I can’t,” said Dave, solemnly. “Every once in a while it persists in -bobbing up in my mind with fearful force.” - -“Poor chap--but what’s the use of it now?” - -“Well, isn’t the crowd going to enter the Wentworth Preparatory School -next fall?” - -“Of course.” - -“And that means more hard study--athletics, perhaps, and----” - -“Athletics! That’s so!” broke in Tom, his expression undergoing a -wonderful change. “If I don’t become a candidate for a freshman team -Larry isn’t a tenderfoot.” - -“My foot isn’t very tender when it comes to kicking a pigskin,” -laughed Larry. “By the way, fellows, I haven’t thought much about it, -but I’d like to enter that school myself.” - -“Bully idea! Why don’t you?” asked Sam Randall. - -“Well, the fact is, my people aren’t very well fixed.” - -“Work your way through school, then. Lots of chaps do it.” - -“By George, I sort o’ think it would be a good plan,” said Larry, -forgetting for an instant his usual drawl. “Honest--I’m just aching to -tumble into football togs.” - -“And with twelve feet of Clifton and Burnham any eleven ought to be a -winner,” laughed Bob. - -Larry was so pleased with the idea that he very nearly forgot the heat -and clouds of insects which persisted in buzzing around his head. - -All the discomforts, however, which nature held in store for him were -forcibly recalled to his mind when the half-breed, with a sullen grunt, -commanded them to mount. - -The shade did not extend far. Soon, leaving the miniature canyon, they -came out upon the yellow plain once more, to see shimmering heat waves -between them and a hazy distance. The only living object was a flock of -birds, but so far off that none could recognize their species. - -Then followed a ride which Larry Burnham never forgot, and which, for -the time being, completely effaced from his mind any pleasing thoughts -of Freshfield Prep School or football. - -At his home near Kingswood, Wisconsin, he had considered himself a -pretty good rider. But an occasional jog to town or about the farm was -not at all like spending entire days in the saddle. He looked curiously -at his companions to see if they seemed to be affected in any way by -the ordeal. But all appeared exasperatingly fresh and unconcerned. - -Tom Clifton, indeed, wore such an air of joy that Larry felt positively -aggrieved. - -“This isn’t quite the thing I bargained for,” he reflected, grimly. -“I imagined a nice camp in a patch of woods, an’ a bit of huntin’ -an’ fishin’--not a crazy search after a policeman who has done the -disappearin’ act. Of course he deserted--the chump! Everything points -that way. Gee whiz! Another day o’ this, an’ I think I’ll get out.” - -An hour later they reached the bed of a dried up creek fringed on -either side by bushes and scrawny willows. And here Teddy Banes forgot -his usual surly manner long enough to show them many evidences of -ancient buffalo trails. - -“Too bad they nearly wiped the poor creatures out,” said Tom. - -“I guess you mean it’s too bad they didn’t let a few herds remain to be -targets for the rifles of the Rambler Club,” said Larry, sourly. “How -much further have we to go, Banes?” - -“Many miles,” responded the half-breed. “We have just begin.” - -“This is certainly the country of long distances,” said Sam Randall, -smiling in spite of himself as he noticed the unhappy expression which -flitted across Larry’s face. - -The creek bottom, often overgrown with sage-brush, wound its tortuous -course in a westerly direction toward another line of hills. From the -nostrils and shaggy coats of the horses rose clouds of steam; and, -as they did not wish to push the animals too hard, the aspect of the -ridges changed with exasperating slowness. - -Finally, however, they entered another gap, through which the former -water route became strewn with rocks, decaying branches and other -obstructions. All this necessitated slow traveling--a slowness which -sorely taxed Larry Burnham’s patience. And every now and then a rather -indiscreet remark of Tom’s served to further add to his troubled -feelings. - -“Yes, sir, I’ve had enough of this,” he muttered, disgustedly. “The -first chance I get I’ll clear out an’ leave this bunch to keep up the -chase all by themselves.” - -And Bob, who surmised from Larry’s expression the state of his -feelings, thought to console him. - -“It isn’t going to be as bad as this always,” he said. - -“I’m quite certain of that,” responded Larry, meaningly. - -And nothing occurred during the afternoon’s ride to change a resolution -he had made on a certain point. - -It was decided not to halt for lunch, the travelers contenting -themselves with crackers, dried beef, and a drink of water from their -canteens. - -At last the half-breed leader left the creek bottom and struck off once -more through the bunch grass toward a third range of thickly-timbered -hills. - -On reaching them the boys this time found no convenient pass through -which they might file. The odor of the fragrant balsam and fir filling -the air, with other sweet scents from leaves and grass, was very -delightful to inhale, and the cool bluish shadows trailing over the -ground an agreeable change from the glare of the open spaces. - -For the last hour the boys had carried on very little conversation. -Larry himself felt too hot and miserable to utter a word. He was, -therefore, totally unprepared for the view which met his eye upon -reaching the top of the hills. - -Down in a basin, or, rather, amphitheater, enclosed on three sides by -the tree-grown slopes, he saw a large collection of Indian teepees. It -was a sight which almost made him join in the exultant shout which came -from Tom Clifton’s lips. - - - - -CHAPTER V - -THE INDIAN VILLAGE - - -“Hooray--Cree village!” cried Tom. - -“Yes,” assented the half-breed. “Soon you see Wandering Bear, much big -chief, old as a withered tree, but strong.” - -Dave Brandon looked earnestly at the picturesque circle of teepees, -one in the center dominating all the rest, and at the red men he could -see on every side. Many, attracted by their appearance, were stalking -solemnly forward. - -“Oh, ho, this is mighty interesting,” he murmured. “What a nice -sheltered retreat.” His eyes wandered from the teepees to the break in -the hills beyond, where a silvery streak of white indicated a water -course. “Guess I’ll have to devote a whole chapter in my book to this, -eh, Bob?” - -“At least two or three,” laughed Bob. - -“Hello,” cried Sam Randall, “what’s that scarlet spot down there? See -it, fellows?” - -He pointed toward a group in the furthest part of the encampment. -Strikingly prominent in the midst of the dusky mass was a spot of color. - -“Him a policeman,” answered Teddy Banes. - -“Great Scott!” cried Dick Travers. “Wouldn’t it be the jolliest luck if -it should prove to be Jed Warren?” - -The half-breed sniffed contemptuously. - -“He gone, I tell you--never come back.” - -“Oh, forget it,” scoffed Tom. “Sail ahead, fellows. Bet I’ll get there -first.” - -His challenge was not accepted, mainly on account of the hot and tired -ponies, which, as though anxious to remain under the cooling shadows, -picked their way but slowly down the incline. - -The nearer they approached the village the greater became the curiosity -and interest in the picturesque scene before them. The wide basin was -becoming filled with tribesmen; thin, bluish columns of smoke from -various fires ascended almost vertically in the air, while further -afield, cropping the grass, sheltered from the blazing sun by the -hills, were Indian ponies tethered in a long line. - -“The real thing beats a moving picture show all hollow,” exclaimed Tom -Clifton, his face glowing with pleasurable anticipation. “Gee! That -redcoat is coming nearer. He’s on foot, too.” - -“I wonder what a member of the Northwest Mounted is doing in this -Indian lodge?” drawled Dave. - -“Perhaps he will be kind enough to explain,” grinned Sam Randall. - -“And if his reasons aren’t mighty good Tom’ll most likely jump on him -hard,” remarked Larry. “Say, fellows, what wouldn’t I give for a nice, -large ice-cream soda!” - -Tom laughed uproariously. - -“Now I know what’s the matter with you, Larry,” he cried. “If we could -only find a confectionery shop at every corner I reckon that glum -expression would flit away from your face.” - -As the last stretch was almost level the horses took it at a good pace; -and, somehow, the boys could not resist sending off on the air a series -of wild whoops, which, in volume of sound, might have rivaled those of -the Crees when they fought against their old-time enemies. - -At the base of the hill they were so quickly surrounded that Larry -Burnham began to feel a trifle apprehensive lest such an unceremonious -entrance into the village had offended these descendants of a warlike -race. - -In their fringed garments, quaint ornaments, and necklaces made of -gaudily-colored beads or animals’ teeth, with a brave here and there -wearing a feather in his hair, they presented a most picturesque -sight. Grizzled old warriors, young men lithe and sinewy, and squaws -crowding about regarded these white invaders of their domain intently. -But on none of the coppery-colored faces turned toward them could any -expression of surprise be detected. - -The jabbering which commenced immediately had not the slightest meaning -to any of the boys, though it served to show them the evident mastery -of Teddy Banes over the Cree dialect. And it was not until a tall, -good-looking youth forced his way to the front that their own voices -became of use. - -“Me glad to see you,” exclaimed the Indian, in very good English. “My -name Thunderbolt.” - -“Very happy to meet you, Mr. Thunderbolt,” drawled Larry. - -“Just the same for me. My grandfather great chief. Him called Wandering -Bear. You come with me. He see you.” - -“Yes, we’ll be mighty glad to meet the chief,” said Bob Somers, -smilingly. “How did you learn to speak English?” - -“Oh, I have many fren’s. What you call him?--cowpunchers and Billy -Ashe--he teach me lots of things.” - -“Who’s Billy Ashe?” - -The intelligent-looking brown-skinned lad, at this question, -immediately swung himself around, looking earnestly toward a certain -point, and evidently having seen what he wanted, uttered a grunt of -satisfaction. - -“Him,” he said, indicating the trooper in the scarlet jacket, now -approaching with long strides. - -“So that’s Billy Ashe, is it?” remarked Dave Brandon. - -[Illustration: “HOW DO YOU DO?”] - -“Say, Thunderbolt,” broke in Tom Clifton, eagerly, “do you know Jed -Warren?” - -“Sure I know him. Why for you ask?” - -“Because we’re going to try to find him. You see”--Tom’s hand made a -sweep so wide as to include the entire crowd of lads--“we’re great -friends of his. Came a mighty long distance to see him, too, only to -discover that----” - -“Well, well--what does all this mean?” - -A voice which showed the possessor to enjoy unusual lung power brought -Tom Clifton’s sentence to a sudden close. - -The man who wore the uniform of the Northwest Mounted was surveying the -boys with unfeigned astonishment. His expression of wonderment seemed -to increase each instant, as his eyes traveled from one to another. - -“How do you do, Mr. Policeman?” greeted Larry, pleasantly. - -“Great Scott--nothing but kids! Search me if I ever saw anything to -beat it. Where on earth did you drop from?” asked the other. - -“We rolled down the hill,” answered Tom Clifton, upon whose -sensibilities the word “kids,” and, especially, uttered by one who -did not appear to be so very much older than themselves, had a most -irritating effect. - -“Lost--probably!” - -This incautious remark further increased Tom’s poor impression of -Trooper Billy Ashe. - -“Lost?” he snorted, his eyes flashing with indignation. “Well, I rather -guess not.” - -“What in the world are you doing here, then? How did you happen to run -into Teddy Banes?” - -In a few words Bob Somers enlightened the surprised trooper of the -Northwest Mounted Police; and Tom obligingly added a few words to the -effect that the crowd had no intention of leaving the country until Jed -Warren was found. - -“Jed Warren!” exclaimed Billy Ashe. “You won’t find him in the -Northwest Territories.” - -“Why not?” asked Bob Somers. - -“Because he’s deserted--that’s why,” answered Ashe, bluntly. - -“Just the same thing me told ’em,” put in Teddy Banes. “For sure he -gone.” - -Tom bristled up; his color heightened. - -“And you could say it a hundred times more, and still I wouldn’t -believe such a thing,” he stormed. - -“Oh, go on!” said the trooper, with an impatient shrug of his -shoulders. He was plainly not prepossessed in Tom’s favor. “What do you -know about it, I’d like to ask?” - -“And what do you know about it?” retorted Tom. - -Billy Ashe’s sun-browned face took on a peculiar expression. He felt -that the uniform he wore should entitle him to a great deal more -deference than was shown by the six-foot lad’s manner. - -A loud argument, which the others vainly tried to stop, ensued; and -during this several cowpunchers were observed to come up and mingle -with the Indians. Tom’s eyes flashed as he told in a most emphatic -manner of their hope to aid the missing trooper. - -A word from Thunderbolt at last attracted sufficient attention to -change the trend of the conversation. - -“You come with me,” invited the young Indian again. “You see my -grandfather--much great chief.” - -Turning to the surrounding Indians he addressed them in a sharp, -incisive fashion. Then the groups began to slowly scatter. - -Riding closely behind their guide, who led the way in and around the -numerous teepees, the lads finally reached the center of the village. - -“It’s a mighty good thing Indians are tame nowadays,” remarked Larry to -Dave Brandon, the nearest to him. “I can kind o’ imagine how prisoners -must have felt when----” - -“My grandfather, Wandering Bear,” came in the clear, musical voice of -Thunderbolt. - -Before the largest and most imposing teepee the ancient chief, a -striking figure in the full glare of sunlight, stood waiting to receive -them. Wandering Bear, though the oldest Indian in the lodge, held his -herculean proportions as erect as ever. - -The chief’s long black hair was plentifully sprinkled with gray, while -myriads of wrinkles seamed his bronze-colored face. A head-dress of -gaudily-colored feathers and various ornaments served to add to the -stern dignity of his presence. - -Never before in the history of the Cree lodge had the Indians -received a visit from a party of boys. But Chief Wandering Bear, like -his tribesmen, did not seem in the least surprised. Imperturbably, -he continued smoking a long-stemmed sandstone pipe, listened with -attention to Thunderbolt’s explanations, then inclined his head, saying -in grave tones: “Howdy!” - -“Most delighted to meet you, Mr. Wandering Bear, I’m sure!” exclaimed -Larry. - -The others responded to his salutation heartily, though in a more -serious fashion, and promptly accepted Thunderbolt’s invitation to -dismount. The horses were then given in charge of several young -Indians, who led them into the pasture-land by the hills. - -The chief shook each of his visitors by the hand. - -“Yes, I speak the tongue of the white man,” he said, in answer to a -question from Bob Somers. “Not many year from now the Indian tongue -shall have passed away. This year, so many less braves; next year, -so many less.” He shook his head sadly. “The white man always -bigger--stronger. But soon the Indian he see no more.” - -All felt impressed by the pathos of the old warrior’s words and manner. - -“Come inside teepee,” commanded Thunderbolt. “Outside too hot.” - -The interior they found a great deal more commodious than any had -expected. None of the Indians attempted to follow the party, which -included the half-breed and Billy Ashe, though several of the younger -braves lingered near the entrance. - -“This is certainly great,” pronounced Dave Brandon, promptly seating -himself upon the ground. - -“You bet,” agreed Larry, wiping his perspiring face. - -The yellowish, translucent sides of the teepee allowed a soft dim light -to pervade their surroundings, while through the partly-open flap came -a glistening ray from out-of-doors. - -Wandering Bear drew up a low stool in the center, the group forming -a semicircle about him. Even Larry Burnham began to enjoy the novel -experience. From the outside came a murmur of guttural voices, or the -occasional sound of moccasined feet passing to and fro. - -Although Thunderbolt displayed the usual stolidity of his race he -nevertheless began to ply the boys with questions. - -“Ah, you come here to hunt and fish,” he exclaimed. “Fine! You take me -for guide, maybe. Me good guide; know all country. You shoot big game; -catch plenty fish--what you say?” - -“I should say it’s a capital idea,” said Dave, stifling a yawn; “eh, -Larry?” - -“Yes; it may save you chaps a heap o’ trouble,” drawled the blond lad, -with a peculiar grin. - -“But we don’t intend to do any hunting or fishing, Thunderbolt, until -this Jed Warren affair is cleared up,” put in Tom. - -“Then you might as well pack up and go home,” declared Billy Ashe, -bluntly. “Jed Warren is gone. He won’t come back, either--depend upon -that. I’ve been working on the case, and am in a good position to know. -Did Sergeant Erskine tell you what we’ve learned?” - -“Yes,” answered Tom, shortly. - -“And still you don’t believe it?” - -“No!” cried Tom, with almost a touch of anger in his voice. “Jed Warren -wouldn’t have deserted if a whole army of smugglers and cattle rustlers -had been hot on his trail.” - -“I like to see a fellow stick up for his friends,” commented the -trooper. “But there’s no sense in dodging facts.” - -“For sure,” put in Teddy Banes. “Him one big fool to think he find -Warren. Many times I tell him so; but always he shakes his head.” - -“And I’ll shake it some more,” cried Tom, highly indignant. - -“Don’t carry your quarrels into Indian teepees, Tom,” advised Larry. -“You mustn’t mislay your manners.” - -“White boys look strong as Indian brave,” remarked Wandering Bear. -“Plenty big, you,” he added, turning toward Larry Burnham, whose huge -form seemed to appear even larger in the dim light. - -“Yes,” grinned Larry. “An’ a ‘promising football player’ ought to be, I -s’pose; but not quite so large as you, Mr. Wandering Bear.” - -The chief nodded gravely. - -“I am old now,” he said--“very old. But at your age no one so strong as -I; no one so quick, or shoot so straight.” He sighed. “Now the muscle -is weak; the eye is dim; the hand trembles.” - -“Git out! You’re more active than many a man of half your age,” -laughed Billy Ashe. He turned toward the boys. “Take my advice: hire -Thunderbolt as a guide. Have a good time, and forget a fellow who once -wore a scarlet coat and was cowardly enough to desert.” - -Tom jumped to his feet, his face flushed and excited. - -“I’ll bet there never was a braver policeman among the Northwest -Mounted!” he exclaimed, in a voice which fairly rang through the -teepee. “Jed a coward! Well, I guess you haven’t anything on him when -it comes to courage, Mr. Billy Ashe.” - -“Cut it out, Tom,” advised Bob Somers. - -“Too much excitement is bad for the nerves,” grinned Larry. - -Ashe rose to face the angry Rambler. - -“It strikes me you’ve got a pretty flip tongue for a youngster,” he -said, slowly. “Better learn to curb it before you get in a mix-up with -some one who is liable to mislay his manners.” - -Larry Burnham’s loud chuckle added to Tom’s feelings of hot resentment, -although a glance from Dave Brandon was sufficient to check an angry -reply. - -“Are you going to stay in the village long?” asked Sam Randall. - -“No; I’m on a ‘special,’” answered Ashe. And being a young trooper he -spoke with an air of some importance. - -“Hope you’ll succeed,” said Dick Travers, “and won’t get mixed up with -any of those dangerous characters Teddy Banes has been telling us -about.” - -“Smugglers,” laughed Tom--“those awful chaps who scared Jed Warren -away!” - -“Many time Warren come here,” said Thunderbolt. “Much good man.” - -Chief Wandering Bear, puffing away on his pipe with mechanical -precision, nodded assent. - -“Yes--a strong man,” he said. “He rides like Indian; Indian likes him.” - -“Sure,” agreed Thunderbolt. “Last time me see him he say: -‘Thunderbolt, I go to Fool’s Castle, and----’” - -“Sergeant Erskine told me something about Fool’s Castle,” broke in Bob. -“In which direction is it?” - -“Fool’s Castle!” echoed Tom Clifton. “What in thunder is that?” - - - - -CHAPTER VI - -BILLY ASHE - - -“It’s an old deserted ranch-house,” explained Ashe, “close to a ridge -of hills. A good many years ago a man named Walt Allen and his two sons -built it. He was a man with plenty of money--had traveled all over the -continent, and picked up a whole lot of queer ideas--at least everybody -around here thought so.” - -“What like?” asked Dave, interestedly. - -“Oh, artistic. Wanted style to his ranch-house, he said; and, would you -believe it, he stuck up a lot of columns in front of the door. They -make you think of an entrance to some old Greek temple.” - -“He must have been odd,” murmured Larry Burnham. - -“Yes,” added Thunderbolt. “Cost much money. No good. Peoples laugh.” - -“Ah, much laugh!” supplemented Wandering Bear, slowly nodding his head. - -“A man often has to pay a big price for being a little out of the -ordinary,” sighed Dave Brandon. “What else did Mr. Allen do to make -people give his place such a curious name?” - -“Put ribbons around the cattle’s necks, I s’pose,” grinned Larry. - -“Or maybe had an ice-cream soda factory in his yard,” chuckled Tom. - -“Something pretty near as bad,” laughed Billy Ashe. “He built a high -stockade around his ranch-house, and stuck up inside a lot of old -statues he’d brought over from Italy.” - -“I’d like to have known him,” said Dave, reflectively. - -“Most of ’em looked as if they’d been in an awful scrimmage with cattle -rustlers, for either an arm or a leg was missing, or perhaps a nose or -an ear busted.” - -“He no have sense,” grumbled the half-breed. - -“Ah! Much queer,” said Wandering Bear. - -“Then he planted fir and cedars about, and, in one corner, built the -prettiest little temple you ever saw.” - -“Any more counts in the indictment?” laughed Bob. - -“Yes,” answered the trooper. “He got some artist to come all the way -from Winnipeg to paint pictures on his ceilings and walls.” - -“He must have been a very delightful person,” said Dave. - -“What became of this ‘delightful person’?” drawled Larry. - -“In those days there was a great deal more lawlessness than now,” -answered the trooper. “The cattle rustlers evidently thought Allen must -be an easy mark, so they paid particular attention to his stock. This -kept on until the Allens got so disgusted they took everything of value -from the ranch-house and left. So, ever since, the place has been known -as Fool’s Castle.” - -“Anybody else ever live there afterward?” asked Sam Randall. - -“No. One wing of the building was struck by lightning and partly -burned.” - -“Lots of history for one house,” remarked Dick Travers. - -“Some of the cowpunchers”--Billy Ashe sniffed contemptuously--“got an -idea there’s something queer about the old place.” - -“Gee!” exclaimed Tom. - -“Yes, it’s a fact; an’ most of ’em are wary of stoppin’ there.” - -“Me no afraid,” said Thunderbolt. He turned to Bob Somers. “You go -there?” - -“Yes,” answered Bob, “with you as guide.” - -“Thunderbolt much good guide,” said Wandering Bear, his stern -eyes resting fondly on his grandson. “Always he fear nothing. -See?”--he pointed to the massive antlers of a moose resting close -by--“Thunderbolt kill him.” - -“Ah! The Rambler Club has a rival!” laughed Larry. - -“I’ll be leaving in about an hour or two,” Ashe was saying, “so it -isn’t likely I’ll see you chaps again unless you find your way back to -the post.” - -“We’ll get there all right,” said Tom Clifton, confidently. - -“About how many men are there in the service of the Northwest Mounted?” -inquired Dave. - -“Not far from seven hundred,” answered Ashe. “Saskatchewan has the -most; Alberta comes second, while the rest are divided between -Manitoba, Yukon and the Territories.” - -“Have lots of work to do?” - -“We always manage to earn our pay. The boys even patrol mining camps; -and, believe me, some of ’em are in pretty out-of-the-way places.” - -“The work must be awful in winter,” remarked Larry Burnham. - -“It’s no easy snap,” admitted Ashe. “With a blizzard howling about you, -and perhaps a pack of fierce, hungry coyotes on your trail, only a man -with a good stout heart could stand it.” - -“I’d rather brave the dangers of a football game,” said Dave. - -“Or umpire a series of rushes between freshmen and sophomores,” grinned -Tom. - -“Maybe, after a while, I be scout for policeman like Teddy Banes,” said -Thunderbolt. “You like work for the police, Banes?” - -“Sure,” answered the half-breed, surlily. - -“And Teddy is a mighty good hand at the business,” commented Ashe. - -“You stay--eat with Indian?” asked Wandering Bear, suddenly. - -The crowd accepted the invitation with enthusiasm, and heartily thanked -the aged chief. - -They asked many questions concerning the life of the tribesmen, and -learned interesting details about their mode of hunting and fishing. -Some of the tales were quite thrilling, too. The tragic end of the old -bull moose whose antlers lay in the teepee was related by Thunderbolt -in his quaint English with pleasing effect. - -Then the Ramblers told of their own experiences, Tom Clifton having a -great deal to say, while a rather sarcastic smile played about Larry -Burnham’s mouth. - -When the sun had sunk beneath the horizon, leaving as a reminder of its -presence flashes of gold and purple on the few clouds which hovered -lazily above, preparations for supper were made. - -The cooking was done on a bed of live coals in front of the wigwam. -Even Larry thoroughly enjoyed the fried pork, roast potatoes and baked -fish. And, besides all this, Thunderbolt passed around corn cakes and -plenty of tea. - -As the grayness of dusk deepened the lights of the various fires threw -a rosy glow over the teepees and redskins. The forms of the hills -slowly became lost, until only the topmost branches of the trees, -outlining themselves weirdly against the sky, could be distinguished -in the black, somber masses. Finally they, too, disappeared in an -impenetrable darkness which settled over the great basin. - -The guttural voices of unseen Indians came over the air; sometimes a -horse whinnied, or a bird flying overhead, or in the timbered reaches, -uttered a note which seemed to carry with remarkable clearness. - -“Gee! I never knew it could be so black out-of-doors,” said Larry. - -“I’ve seen it blacker than this,” returned Tom Clifton. - -“Oh, of course we know that,” drawled Larry. “But I’ll bet a white -horse would look like a spot of ink to-night.” - -Soon after supper was over Billy Ashe rose to his feet. - -“I must be off, boys,” he said. - -“What! Going to police barracks now?” asked Larry, in astonishment. -“How can you find your way?” - -“No; I’m not bound in that direction,” answered the trooper, with a -returning touch of importance. “I can steer myself well enough by the -stars and compass--eh, Wandering Bear?” - -The chief, whose shadow was thrown fantastically over the sides of the -wigwam, nodded. - -“Yes,” he said. “The white man much good. But never so good as Indian, -who has the eyes of the eagle, the scent of the coyote, and the hearing -of the hare.” - -“I sort o’ think they must have it down pretty fine,” said Larry. - -Billy Ashe shook hands all around; he even slapped Tom Clifton on the -shoulder, although still a trifle nettled at some of his remarks. - -“I guess, son, by this time,” he said, “you’ve got rid of that foolish -notion about Jed Warren, eh?” - -“Foolish notion!” cried Tom, indignantly. “I never had any.” - -“Of course he hadn’t,” said Larry, satirically. “If he doesn’t discover -that missing trooper by the aid of the sun, the moon and the twinkling -stars, I won’t get an ice-cream soda at the very first town I reach.” - -With a merry laugh, Billy Ashe strode away. - -“So-long, fellows,” he called. “Hope you’ll have a good time.” - -“Some chaps are awful stubborn,” complained Tom. “Honest--I don’t -believe they’d change their ideas even if you could prove ’em to be in -the wrong.” - -The fit of laughter which seized Larry at this statement made Wandering -Bear and his grandson regard him with mild surprise. - -“Come,” invited Thunderbolt. “I show you village.” - -Leaving Wandering Bear calmly puffing away on his long-stemmed pipe -and Teddy Banes sitting motionless with his back resting against the -teepee, the lads promptly followed the young Indian. - -It was a very novel sensation to the big blond lad to find himself -wandering about a real Indian village. And the picturesque groups -of red men sitting around the fires, with the ruddy glow over their -blanketed forms, or moving here and there, now caught by the beams of -light, then disappearing in the shadows, interested him about as much -as anything could, considering his state of mind and aching bones. - -Before one teepee Thunderbolt stopped to introduce the boys to Sulking -Wolf, whose stock of English consisted of three words: “How you do!” - -“Very well, thank you,” said Larry. “It’s an awful dark night, isn’t -it?” - -“How you do!” answered Sulking Wolf, gravely. - -“Listen!” cried Tom. - -The sound of hoof-beats coming from their left had attracted his -attention. - -“Billy Ashe go now,” exclaimed Thunderbolt. - -“He seems to have plenty of nerve,” remarked Larry, reflectively. A -rather shivery sensation stole through him as he thought of the lonely -ride which must be before the trooper in the gloom and silence of the -prairie. - -“Oh, it’s all in getting used to it,” said Tom. - -“Of course,” returned Larry, wearily. - -“I’d like to stay here for a week,” remarked Dave Brandon. “There is -something so cozy about these Indian teepees. And to sit beside a bed -of glowing coals and look at the starry sky----” - -“Help!” laughed Larry. “It’s been too much for him.” - -“And to feel an inspiration for a poem steadily growing is -certainly----” - -“Delightful--if it never appears in the Kingswood High School -‘Reflector.’” - -“I can sympathize with Mr. Walt Allen,” sighed Dave, somewhat -irrelevantly. - -At the extreme edge of the village, not far from the break in the -hills, the party encountered several dogs whose vociferous barking -and angry snarls made Larry Burnham step back in alarm. The dim forms -whisking around so close at hand caused him to fear that at any moment -the brutes might spring upon him. - -“Great Scott; they seem to be as big as wolves, and as dangerous!” he -cried. - -“Oh, if you’d ever seen the real articles you wouldn’t talk that way,” -exclaimed Tom. - -“Dog no hurt,” said Thunderbolt, reassuringly. - -He spoke sharply to the skulking animals, and by a threatening -movement of his foot caused them to retire. - -At last, beyond the confines of the village, the lads turned to look -back at the collection of wigwams. Here and there some were brought out -clearly by the flickering campfires; others rose spectrally, scarcely -seen amidst their surroundings, while many were completely enveloped in -the gloom. - -Above the forbidding amphitheater of hills the stars and constellations -shone with singular brilliancy. - -“Hold a match for me, Bob,” cried Dave, suddenly. “I’ve got that -inspiration for a poem. I’ll scribble it off in a jiffy.” - -Amid the laughter of the others, Bob obligingly complied. - -“Are we ever going to read it?” asked Larry. - -“That remains to be seen,” answered Dave. - -“It never will be, I reckon,” returned Larry, with a laugh. - -Having visited all the points of interest they sauntered slowly back to -the chief’s teepee, where they found Wandering Bear and the half-breed -sitting in exactly the same positions. - - - - -CHAPTER VII - -THE FIRST CAMP - - -“White man and Indian are brothers,” remarked Wandering Bear, solemnly, -on the following morning. “Indian always friend of white man. White man -give him much presents; Indian show him big game; where fish is plenty. -Yes, always much friend now.” - -Breakfast was over. The crowd, with the exception of Larry, to whom the -situation was so novel as to prevent him from sleeping with any degree -of soundness, had spent a comfortable night. - -To Tom Clifton’s great satisfaction, Teddy Banes announced his -intention of remaining at the Cree village. - -“Good! That old sour-face would be enough to take all the fun out of -the trip,” said the aspirant for football honors. “Acts awful queer, -doesn’t he?” - -“At times he did hand out a few awful knocks, if that’s what you -mean,” grinned Larry. - -He glanced at the sky, in the vast expanse of which not a fleck of -cloud could be seen. Every indication pointed to another sunny, -sizzling day; and, anticipating the discomfort before him, the lad made -a wry face. - -“What’s up?” demanded Tom. - -“I am,” responded Larry, rising to his feet. “Isn’t it time to skip?” - -“Yes! Fool’s Castle is a long way from here,” said Bob. “We shan’t -reach it even to-night, eh, Thunderbolt?” - -“To-morrow,” answered the young Indian. - -“But for stern duty,” remarked Dave, “I’d refuse to leave the -delightful shade of these hills.” - -At Thunderbolt’s direction several young braves departed for the -horses, soon leading them up to the teepee. They had been well fed and -cared for, so were in a mettlesome mood. A mass of tribesmen gathered -around as Wandering Bear bade them a stately adieu. - -“White man come again,” he invited. “Always welcome.” - -“How you do,” said Sulking Wolf, shaking hands with each. And, as they -sprang into the saddle and started off, they heard him utter the same -words as a parting salutation. - -Thunderbolt, mounted on a brown-patched nag, led the advance. - -Soon after passing the break in the rugged hills they reached a narrow -stream which rippled and bubbled and sang its way over a rocky bed. - -“We go across,” announced the Indian. - -“It looks jolly inviting,” said Larry. “If I could find any excuse I’d -fall off my horse and take a swim.” - -“Did you ever think how curious a fish’s life must be?” began Dave. - -“No! But I’ve often thought how curious the Rambler Club’s life must -be,” grinned Larry. - -The cool, clear water splashed over stirrup leathers, while the hoofs -of the ponies scattered showers of shining drops. - -Crossing the marshy strip of shore, with the imprints of many -longhorns’ hoofs upon it, they struck off in a westerly direction. - -The further they progressed the more Larry Burnham became convinced of -the silliness of the whole proceeding. Frequently, when the pace was -not too great, he was observed to take a folder from his pocket and -scan it intently. - -“Wonder what that chap’s doing?” remarked Tom Clifton to Dick Travers -on one occasion. - -“Ask him,” laughed Dick. - -“And get some kind of mean answer?” snapped Tom. “No--I don’t think. -But I’ll find out, just the same.” - -At noon a halt for lunch was made in a little patch of timber, and -upon resuming the march the seven lads pushed steadily ahead, at long -intervals skirting around or crossing ranges of hills, and seeing on -many occasions great herds of grazing cattle. - -“Where are we going to stop, Thunderbolt?” asked Dave, when it came -time to look for another camping ground. - -The young Indian pointed to a patch of woods in the distance. - -“Good place,” he announced. “Water. White boys much pleased. -Thunderbolt know all good places.” - -“Well, there’s one lucky thing,” mused Larry to himself. “As far as -I can make out, this jaunt has taken me in just the right direction. -I wonder if the fellows will be mad? But what in thunder do I care if -they are?” - -As their guide had said the timber seemed to be a most excellent place -for a camp. There were plenty of fragrant balsam boughs for couches, -all the fire-wood necessary, and a tiny creeklet flowing through the -center. - -“Simply jim dandy!” cried Tom, enthusiastically. “Everything we -need--except ice-cream sodas. How about it, little ‘Fear-not’?” - -Larry, feeling that his tribulations were almost over, grinned. - -“It’s perfectly lovely, Tom,” he said. “I don’t know what kind of -an insect bit me on the cheek just now, but I’ll bet they have an -enthusiastic reception committee waiting to receive us.” - -“Don’t forget I carry with me all sorts of medical stuff,” said Tom. - -“For instance?” - -“The first aid to the injured kind.” - -“Try to use any o’ it on me, an’ there’ll be a scrap,” snickered Larry. - -Dismounting, the boys led their ponies through the woods, coming to a -stop in a small, grassy clearing. - -“Couldn’t be better,” exclaimed Bob. “Pitch in, fellows; we’ll have a -camp made in a jiffy.” - -Setting the example, he quickly unsaddled his tired horse, whose shaggy -sides were flecked with foam. Then, tethering the animal to a near-by -sapling, he drew a hatchet from his belt. - -“We’ll need lots of fire-wood,” he said. - -“I’ll help you cut some,” announced Tom. - -“Me too,” said Thunderbolt. - -“My job will be getting the water, and things ready to cook,” declared -Dick Travers. “It’s your turn to-night, Tom, to play chef.” - -“Guess I’ll gather a whole lot of balsam boughs for beds,” supplemented -Sam Randall. - -After the horses had been cared for Dave Brandon, on looking around, -discovered a spot which promised to afford a delightful resting place; -and, in order to see if his ideas were correct, promptly tested it. - -The result proved highly satisfactory. - -Seeing this, the tired, hot and dusty Larry Burnham, after washing -his face and hands in the creek, and satisfying his thirst with the -fresh, cool water, sauntered back to the glade and imitated Dave with -considerable success. - -There was no doubt that the blond lad, as Tom often declared, lacked -get up and go. He had everything in him to make a great success but the -willingness to hustle. His laziness differed from Dave’s; for while the -former editor of the High School “Reflector” often indulged in periods -of rest, it was more in order to allow his mental faculties full play. -Then, too, Dave could be very strenuous and determined when anything -called for such an effort. - -And no one had ever seen Larry Burnham either active or strenuous, -although he was generally known to be determined--to exert himself as -little as possible on all occasions. - -Presently the noise of the hatchets stopped, and Tom Clifton, -bearing in his arms an enormous quantity of brush and wood, was seen -approaching. He threw his burden down on the grass, then began to eye -Larry sternly. - -“What are you sitting there for?” he demanded. - -“Resting, thank you, Mr. Clifton,” responded Larry, sweetly. - -“You’re a nice one, I must say.” - -“Yes, as fellows go, I suppose I must be pretty nice,” chirped Larry. - -“Why in thunder don’t you get up and hustle like the rest of us?” - -“There’s no use in everybody working.” - -“Oh, there isn’t, eh? Well, that’s a good one! There’s plenty for a -chap to do if he only wants to look for it. Come--get up, Larry. Start -the fire going.” - -“No, thanks,” drawled Larry, with a shake of his head. “Don’t think -Dick Travers’d like it.” His eyes began to twinkle. “When Dick gets all -the kindlings together I won’t mind puttin’ a match to ’em.” - -“You haven’t done a blessed thing since you’ve been with us,” stormed -Tom. “You’re always sitting around waiting for grub to be served.” - -“Mercy! Just listen to the boss!” - -“It makes me tired. On a camping-out trip the work ought to be divided -equally. Be sensible, Larry. I’m willing to do my share, but I want to -see every other chap do his.” - -“Don’t waste so much time, Tom. Talk to Dave. He’s loafin’.” - -“Aren’t you going to give us a hand then?” - -“I sort o’ think it isn’t worth while.” - -“You’re lazy, Larry Burnham!” cried Tom, hotly. “A fine football player -you’ll make if you don’t wake up and put a little ginger into that big -form of yours.” - -“Softly--softly, Tom!” laughed Dave. - -“I’ve been talking to a big softy, I know,” growled Tom, thoroughly -disgusted, “and----” - -“Hold on!” interrupted Larry. His anger began to rise. “Fire off a -little more talk like that, an’ I’ll tell you what I think of you.” - -“Go ahead, then!” snapped Tom. - -“For goodness’ sake, fellows, cut it all out,” put in Dave. “I’ll -prescribe a good supper and a couple of hours rest----” - -“Don’t be afraid, Larry,” persisted Tom. - -“Afraid of what?” jeered Larry--“you? See here, Tom Clifton”--the big -fellow rose to his feet--“believe me, I’m tired of your always pitchin’ -into me. Do you understand?” - -“I should worry,” said Tom. “The idea of your talking like that after -all the mean things you’ve said about the Rambler Club! Didn’t you -nearly die with laughter when that idiot of a Teddy Banes made silly -remarks? Oh, no!” The color mounted to his face. “I’ve been thinking -about it ever since.” - -“I don’t sport a chip on my shoulder, but I’ll take just so much an’ no -more!” exclaimed the blond lad. - -His belligerent attitude and the look which came into his mild blue -eyes quite astounded Tom Clifton. Here was a chap whom he sometimes -thought belonged in the overgrown baby class actually threatening a -member of the Rambler Club. To retreat would never do. - -“Are you going to start a scrap?” - -For a few seconds the two tall boys, but a few paces apart, eyed each -other so angrily that the “historian” felt compelled to literally step -into the breach. - -“That will do, fellows,” he said, quietly. - -“He needn’t think I’m afraid of him!” cried Tom. - -Dave gently urged him away. - -Thereupon Clifton, with a snort of disgust, seized a water pail and -went off toward the creek. Larry then resumed his former position. - -“A conceited dub!” he remarked, kicking lazily at the turf. - -“No,” answered Dave; “Tom really isn’t conceited. He’s simply terribly -in earnest.” - -“Oh, I don’t know!” growled Larry. - -The stout boy smiled. - -“I’ll admit that sometimes he’s a little too free in expressing his -opinions; but he’s fair and square as a chap can be. You’re lazy, -Larry--so am I.” He ended the sentence with a good-natured laugh. - -By this time the workers were coming back. Enough wood had been -gathered for the entire night, and a sufficient quantity of balsam -boughs for the beds was only waiting to be dragged into the glade. - -Whistling cheerily, Dick Travers returned with pails of water, closely -followed by Tom. - -“Say, Dave, would you believe it,” remarked the former, “there’s a big -bunch of longhorns grazing on the other side of these woods. Some of -them have just crossed the creek a bit further down.” - -“Gee!” exclaimed Larry. “Suppose they should come upon us while we’re -asleep!” - -Feeling sorry he had given way to his temper, he addressed this remark -to Tom. Tom, however, preserved an icy silence. - -“Cattle no hurt,” said Thunderbolt, reassuringly. - -The meal was prepared in a surprisingly short time. Luscious slices of -bacon sizzled away in the frying-pan; potatoes were baking on red-hot -embers; while coffee-pots sent up clouds of hissing steam. Then there -were crackers and cheese and preserves. - -Any boy who could not have enjoyed the “spread” which Chef Tom Clifton -prepared would have been in a pretty poor condition. - -But every boy did enjoy it, even though the insects, both flying and -crawling, persisted in making themselves unduly conspicuous. - -Thunderbolt proved a most agreeable guide and companion. He related -stories, told them secrets of woodcraft which even Tom admitted he had -not heard before, and helped to drag the balsam boughs into the glade -and arrange them in neat, smooth piles. - -“He’s a crackerjack,” laughed Sam Randall. “After this, don’t let -anybody talk to me about lazy Indians.” - -“Thunderbolt certainly isn’t one,” said Tom, with strong emphasis. - -When preparations for the night’s rest were finished the fire was -sending a wide circle of dancing light over the darkening woods. And in -this little oasis of light amidst a vast desert of gloom the boys sat, -often conjecturing about Jed Warren’s strange disappearance. - -“I’m going to turn in,” remarked Dave, finally. - -“I think we’d better all do the same,” said Bob. “We want to make an -early start for Fool’s Castle to-morrow morning.” - -Thereupon the crowd unstrapped their blankets and betook themselves to -the fragrant balsam boughs--that is, all except Sam Randall, whose duty -it was to stand first watch. - -“And don’t you dare to wake me up a minute before time, Sam,” warned -Dave, laughingly. - -So the lone sentinel began pacing to and fro. The occasional comments -from the recumbent forms ceased, and the soft pat, pat of Sam Randall’s -feet, the never-ceasing rustling of grass and leaves, and the noises -made by the horses moving about were the sounds which reigned supreme. - -Sam was too “seasoned a veteran” to have his emotions stirred. -Mechanically, he watched the light flashing over tree trunks, tinging -deep recesses with its ruddy glow, and the smoke rising high and -drifting slowly out of view. - -Every now and again he replenished the fire, until the flames shot up, -and crackling sparks, like a miniature fire display, dropped about him. - -His lonely vigil neared an end. - -“Poor old Dave,” he reflected, glancing at the round face of the -sleeping “historian.” “I almost hate to do it.” - -He was about stepping over to awaken him when a series of -blood-curdling yells from a point not far distant, followed by the -sharp cracking of pistol shots, gave him the start of his life. - -Then came the neighs of frightened horses, the stamping of hoofs, and -the sound of a heavy crashing through the underbrush. - -Before the astounded Sam Randall had time to even voice a warning the -camp was astir. - - - - -CHAPTER VIII - -THE STAMPEDE - - -Bob Somers was the first to spring to his feet. - -“Good gracious! What’s the matter?” he yelled. - -“What--what--what----” began Larry Burnham, frantically throwing aside -his enfolding blanket. - -“Who’s that shooting?” cried Tom. - -Thunderbolt alone made no comment, but sprang toward the darkness, -while the others, with wide, staring eyes, sought to penetrate its -mysteries. And as they stood there, with every feeling of sleepiness -entirely gone, the same awe-inspiring cries and cracking of a pistol -began again. - -“Fall flat on your faces! Get back of a tree!” yelled Larry, in terror. -“It must be cattle rustlers or smugglers.” - -He was about to follow his own advice when the heavy crashing in the -woods, which at no time had ceased, broke forth with renewed violence. - -Several huge, indistinct forms were seen making toward the fire. Larry, -for an instant too startled to move, uttered a piercing yell. - -“Save yourselves!” he called out frantically. - -Then, breaking the spell which had seemed to hold him fast, he made a -wild dash for safety. - -“The cattle are stampeding, fellows!” shouted Bob Somers. - -There was no time, in that moment of confusion and alarm, for any -concerted action. Each lad was compelled to depend entirely upon -himself. - -As a herd of terrified longhorns bore directly down upon them the -alarmed campers flew in all directions. The sound of pounding hoofs, -carrying to their senses the imminence of the peril, made them put -forth every exertion to get beyond the animals’ path. - -“Great Scott!” breathed Bob Somers. - -He had crossed the glade and become entangled in a thick mass of -underbrush on the opposite side. - -Several of the fleeing longhorns were almost upon him. Desperately he -shot a glance over his shoulder, to see the ponderous bodies faintly -brought into view by the firelight. - -A hoarse bellow seemed to sound almost in his very ears. He heard -several of his companions utter wild yells; but he himself, even in the -excitement of the moment, remained silent, using every faculty at his -command to escape the danger. - -Now it was impossible to see a yard in advance. He was in the woods, -groping, blindly pushing through, stumbling and tripping; now bringing -up against a tree; then impeded by the brush. And at every step of the -way he appeared to be directly in the track of the stampeding cattle. - -Bob Somers’ heart was beating fast. Every moment he expected to feel -the impact of a frightened steer, and every moment he realized the -hopelessness of getting outside the zone of the animals’ flight. - -Suddenly a low-hanging branch swept him off his feet. Sprawling on the -ground he felt a thrill like an electric shock. Then, with a supreme -effort, he dragged himself behind the trunk, stood erect, and pressed -his form hard--painfully hard--against it. - -The heavy hoof-beats were crashing by on either side. Trembling with -excitement, and breathing hard, he passed a few tense moments, in the -midst of which the fierce yells and pistol shots sounded for a third -time. - -Almost surprised to find himself unharmed, the Rambler listened, first -with added fear--then thankfulness, as they abruptly ended, and the -last steer floundered by. - -For a moment he remained motionless. Now that danger was over the -adventure left a curious feeling of unreality. The camp-fire had -entirely disappeared; the darkness was so intense as to make it -impossible to determine in which direction he had come. Both hands and -face were smarting. Then, as a reminder of the violent impact of the -branch, his shoulder ached dully. - -Bob Somers’ thoughts, however, were too busy to pay any attention to -these annoyances. Were his companions safe? What had become of the -cattle rustlers who had apparently started the stampede? - -Putting his hands to his mouth he uttered a cry which sounded shrilly -through the woods. - -In a second a response came, then another, until five had sounded from -widely separated points. - -“Hooray! What a relief!” cried Bob. He felt like uttering shouts of -joy. “Hello, Dave, hello!” he called. “Where are you?” - -“I don’t know where I am, but I’m here,” came back his friend’s -familiar voice. - -“Has anybody been hurt?” came a demand, in quavering tones. - -It was Larry Burnham; and his tremolo was loud enough to bring forth a -number of negative responses. - -“Gee, isn’t that great!” cried Bob. “I had dreadful visions of Tom’s -supply of medical stuffs giving out before the whole crowd could be -treated. Whew! A mighty close shave, eh?” - -“I’m lost!” yelled Dave, cheerily; “I’m floundering! Where’s -Thunderbolt?” - -A peculiar call, like a war-whoop, suddenly trilled through the -darkness. - -“Me by the fire,” yelled Thunderbolt. “You come.” - -Guided by a frequent repetition of his shouts, the lads were soon able -to steer themselves in the proper direction. - -Bob Somers was the first to reach the fire, whose embers had been -scattered by the cattle. Thunderbolt, busily replenishing it, looked up. - -“Anybody hurt?” he demanded, anxiously. - -“None of us; not a bit,” laughed Bob. “Here come the fellows now.” - -Dusky forms were pushing their way toward them as fast as circumstances -would allow. And it was a highly mystified and still excited crowd -which, a moment later, were gathered together once more. - -“Goodness gracious, Bob!” began Tom. “Talk about narrow escapes! Maybe -I’m not glad everybody’s safe and sound. Honest--one of those hulking -big brutes grazed me. Come anywhere near you, Dave?” - -“Just a few yards away,” answered the stout boy. “I kept on running as -hard as I could until something tripped me, and I fell flat on my face. -Fortunately the cattle missed me.” - -Thunderbolt remained impassive--silent, during a series of thrilling -recitals. Larry Burnham told of having been struck a heavy, glancing -blow by one of the animals. From the expression on his face it was very -evident the experience had greatly terrified him. - -“Who do you suppose could have fired those pistol shots and made such -awful yells?” cried Tom. “It sounded like a dozen men, at least, eh, -fellows?” - -“Cattle rustlers, of course,” snapped Larry, his voice still unsteady. -“Now maybe you won’t believe what Teddy Banes told us!” - -Bob Somers stared at the depths of the fire thoughtfully. - -“Cattle rustlers usually follow up the steers, don’t they?” he asked. -“Yet it’s mighty certain no horsemen came through that woods.” - -“One of the strangest mysteries we ever ran into!” said Dick. - -“What nearly ran into me was no mystery,” commented Larry, decidedly. - -“But why are we standing around doing nothing?” cried Sam. “Let’s -reconnoiter.” - -“Of course,” agreed Tom. “Come ahead, fellows; hustle for torches.” - -“Much queer,” interrupted Thunderbolt. “Never me see anything like it. -I run into woods; I see flash of pistol many times. Then I make big -jump. Four--five cow come straight. I say: ‘Thunderbolt, you gone!’ I -make another jump. I say: ‘You killed, Thunderbolt!’ Ugh! Him pass me -this close.” - -The young Indian, holding his hands up, indicated a space of about a -foot. - -“What’s your idea, Thunderbolt?” asked Dave. - -“Me not know. Much queer. Cattle rustlers no drive steers in woods. -Never I see anything like it.” - -“Or I either,” said Bob. “The only thing we’re certain of is that some -one was hanging around this camp.” - -“Makes a fellow feel kind of shivery to think of it, too,” admitted -Larry. - -“And that either he or they started a stampede.” - -“And just made a botch of it,” suggested Tom Clifton. “They wanted to -drive the plagued brutes one way, and, instead, they beat it right for -our camp. Then the rustlers, afraid of being seen, gave us a mighty -wide berth, but caught up with ’em outside the woods.” - -“Not bad deduction, Tom,” commented Sam Randall, who had gathered -together a collection of pine-knots for torches. - -“It hardly seems worth while to make a search now,” remarked Dave. -“I’ll bet by this time those chaps are a mighty long distance off.” - -Larry Burnham devoutly wished himself back in his Wisconsin home. -After all, the half-breed had uttered no idle warning. Here they -were, miles and miles from any settlement, at the mercy of the -first band of marauders who should choose to attack them. It was a -very unpleasant thought. When he looked beyond the rosy glow of the -firelight into the thick, awesome blackness, which might be concealing -some of the dangerous characters his mind pictured, his nerves tingled -unpleasantly. Little sounds before scarcely noticed assumed a deep -significance. To his imagination, fired by the unexpected event, it -seemed as though footsteps were not far away. - -“Come on, Larry,” sang out Tom. “Don’t let’s all keep together, -fellows. I’m going this way.” - -Tom was already holding aloft a blazing pine-knot. And, to Larry’s -amazement, without waiting for any one to join him, he started off in -the direction from whence the sounds had come. - -“He’s certainly got a lot of nerve,” mused the blond lad. Then, turning -toward Dave, he added, “I’ll go with you.” - -And presently seven pine-knots were sending weird shoots of light into -the depths of the woods. Trees sprang into view, and flashed out; great -masses of underbrush caught the glow, held it for an instant, then -dropped from sight. - -Thunderbolt, eager as a coyote, with Sam Randall at his side, -frequently stooped over to examine the ground. Bushes and grass had -been trampled almost flat by the cattle. Down by the dark, silent water -of the creek the Indian’s eye scanned a muddy strip of shore for signs -of men or horses. - -He saw plenty of signs, but even he, with all his cunning and sagacity, -was unable to determine whether any of them had been made by strangers -or not. - -“We can’t find a single clue,” remarked Sam, disappointedly. - -“Men all gone now,” said Thunderbolt. “Much queer. I no understand. -Maybe cattle rustlers; maybe not.” - -“It’s as deep a mystery as the Jed Warren affair,” murmured Sam. - -Following the bank they explored every foot of the way. But no -discoveries of any kind rewarded their eager search. - -“We find nothings,” said Thunderbolt, disconsolately. - -“Perhaps when daylight comes it may be easier,” commented Sam. -“Certainly no use in keeping this up any longer.” - -As the two slowly returned toward the camp they could see torches -moving erratically about, and hear the various searchers occasionally -calling to one another. Dave and Larry were discovered seated before -the fire. - -“Oh, ho!” yawned Dave, “didn’t find a thing, eh? Well, neither did -we--didn’t expect to, either.” - -“I reckon we won’t do any more sleeping to-night,” suggested Larry. - -“If any one is willing to take my turn on guard,” laughed Dave, “I’ll -guarantee to be in the land of unrealities within ten minutes. Really, -I’m uncommonly tired.” - -Loud tramping in the underbrush soon announced the return of the others. - -“No luck at all!” exclaimed Bob, cheerfully. - -“It beats me all hollow,” said Dick Travers. “Guess Tom must have -struck it about right.” - -“It’s another mystery for you chaps to solve, Clifton,” said Larry, -managing to grin for the first time since his scare. - -Tom tossed the remains of his torch into the fire. - -“Yes, it is,” he answered, grimly. “And, by Jove, if we leave the -Northwest Territories without doing it I’ll be ashamed of the crowd.” - - - - -CHAPTER IX - -LARRY HAS A PLAN - - -Larry Burnham didn’t get any more sleep that night. And, as he lay with -eyes half closed, gazing at one “sentinel” after another, he often -reflected that a country in which such startling things could happen -was no place for him. - -“These adventures are all right in books, or when some chap tells about -’em,” he murmured; “but when it comes to the real thing--excuse me!” - -The boys were up with the twittering birds, and after breakfast a -thorough investigation was made. - -Daylight, however, did not aid them. - -“I suppose,” drawled Dave, “that in my history of the Rambler Club -this particular incident must be told with the explanation that no -explanation could ever be found.” - -“Saddle up, fellows,” laughed Bob. “En route to Fool’s Castle!” - -Larry Burnham listened with a grim smile. This was the day he -intended to carry out a certain resolution. With a perseverance quite -extraordinary for him, the “promising football player,” by the aid of -a small compass, had kept a pretty accurate record of their travels. -Directly to the south, on the line of the railroad, was a settlement. - -“No one could possibly miss it,” he reflected. And to keep going in -a straight line would require no great skill. “If it wasn’t for Tom -Clifton’s tongue, an’ that look he can put on his face, I’d come right -out an’ tell ’em what I intend to do.” - -Canteens were filled at the creek, and saddle bags repacked. The horses -seemed fresh and mettlesome--quite ready for the journey before them. - -“No good, hurry too fast,” remarked Thunderbolt. “Reach Castle this -afternoon.” - -“I’ll be mighty glad to see it,” commented Dave. “All men who have -ideas above the ordinary should be respected.” - -“They certainly made Walt Allen pay a jolly dear price for his -originality,” remarked Sam Randall, leaping into the saddle. - -With Tom Clifton at the head the seven riders picked their way through -the woods, which were sweetly scented with nature’s perfumes. The dew -of early morning glistened like diamonds on leaves and grasses, and -through the openings in the trees came bright shafts of sunlight. - -At a convenient place the creek was forded; then, sweeping out into the -open, they saw before them once more vast monotonous stretches covered -with waving bunch grass. - -“If it was only a bit cooler I’d like to race the crowd,” said Tom. -“Slow traveling never suited me.” - -“White boy ride well,” commented Thunderbolt--“just like Indian brave.” - -“A chap who has been in the saddle as much as I have couldn’t help -riding well,” said Tom, modestly. “There’s nothing like a life in the -open to bring out what’s in a fellow. A little later, Larry, you’ll -thank us for letting you come along.” - -“Will I?” said Larry. - -“Of course you will,” laughed Tom, who had magnanimously decided to -forgive the other for his impolite conduct on the night before. “I’ll -bet you’ll even be glad to do your share of the work.” - -“How joyful!” jeered Larry. - -“Seem to be lots of cattle around,” interposed Sam Randall. - -“I guess the rustlers were considerate enough to leave a few behind as -souvenirs,” grinned Dick. - -Soon they were riding in the midst of a great herd of browsing -longhorns. - -“Whoppers, all right,” said Larry, surveying the animals with much -interest. “Chirping crickets! Think of what they almost did to us last -night!” - -“I shall always feel grateful to that patch of woods,” said Dave. “It -probably helped to save us.” - -“Stampede much queer,” put in Thunderbolt, shaking his head gravely. “I -no understand.” - -“It shows, for one thing, that Teddy Banes knew exactly what he was -talking about,” said Larry, decisively. - -When the crowd finally halted for lunch in the shadow of a barren ridge -of hills Larry Burnham began to feel nervous. The time had come to -act. Somehow twinges of conscience, which before had not troubled the -lad, assailed him fiercely. Was it right to desert the crowd in such a -manner? - -Of course Larry knew the answer, and all his efforts to convince -himself of the soundness of his position were unavailing. - -“I don’t care; I’ll do it anyway,” he muttered savagely. - -Luck, however, was against him. Many times he had let opportunities -slip when he could have cantered away without attracting especial -attention. But to-day the crowd seemed to hang around him with -exasperating persistence. Always one or another was close at his elbow. - -“Confound it!” he muttered angrily. “If I don’t get off within a couple -of hours it’ll be too late. I don’t want to do any traveling in the -dark.” - -When they were again in the saddle, cantering leisurely over the -prairie, a suspicion suddenly entered his mind. - -Could the boys have suspected his scheme? - -Larry reflected that on several occasions he had made pretty broad -hints, not expecting, however, to be taken seriously. - -“What a silly idiot I was,” he murmured, in great disgust. “I’ll find -out mighty soon if it’s so.” - -He immediately tested his theory by riding a considerable distance in -advance; and, upon glancing over his shoulder, saw a Rambler cantering -not far behind. In fact, their every act showed them to be clearly on -the watch. - -In proportion as Larry’s anger increased, so his scruples vanished. It -was now a question of either declaring himself boldly or pitting his -wits against the others’. He rebelled at the idea of the former. Wasn’t -he his own master? Should he be forced to submit to Tom Clifton’s -sarcasm, or the loud protestations and arguments which were sure to -come from all? - -No! In spite of everything he would choose the easiest way out. - -And noting a peculiar grin on Tom Clifton’s face, whenever the tall lad -glanced toward him, he often muttered: “I’ll fool ’em yet.” - -A pleasant breeze sweeping for miles and miles over the vast expanse -proved a great relief to the hot and perspiring boys. It enabled them -to make better progress, too; for their mounts did not show the same -traces of fatigue as before. - -“I reckon, at this rate, we ought to reach Fool’s Castle late in the -afternoon,” remarked Bob Somers. - -“Yes,” affirmed the guide. - -“And I’ll be uncommonly glad to see the place,” said Dave. “Can we go -inside, Thunderbolt?” - -“Sure thing. No door; no window,” answered the young Indian. - -“I’ll bet Larry is just aching to make a tour of investigation,” -grinned Tom. - -“I’m simply hilarious about it,” snapped Larry. “I should think you -chaps ought to fit pretty well in a castle of that name.” - -“I’ll feel perfectly at home, anyway,” laughed Dave, gazing into Tom’s -snapping eyes with a twinkle of amusement. - -The blond lad, thoroughly disgusted at the failure of his plans, -sometimes left the main body, feeling in no mood to take part in the -merry conversation. - -“He’s just as sore as can be,” confided Tom to Bob Somers. - -It was, indeed, Tom who had first discovered what Larry had in mind. Of -a very inquisitive nature, his curiosity was not satisfied until he had -discovered the nature of the paper which appeared to interest Larry so -greatly. This feat he succeeded in accomplishing by lagging behind and -viewing the unsuspecting lad through a field-glass. - -Tom, of course, immediately made a number of deductions and explained -them to his companions, who were soon convinced of the correctness of -his views. - -“And to think of his wanting to sneak away!” went on Tom. “It’s a -mighty poor way of treating us, I’m sure.” - -“And I’ll bet Larry would always regret it,” said Bob. - -“Sure thing! The funny part is, that I don’t think he suspects us of -knowing anything about it.” - -A long time after, the travelers, hot, dusty and tired, reached the -top of an eminence which brought into view a vast stretch of country, -broken here and there by low ridges of hills. - -Thunderbolt halted. He turned toward the horsemen crowding closely -behind him, his manner showing them that he had something interesting -to communicate. The brown, muscular arm of the young Cree was extended -in the direction of the now declining sun. - -“Well?” cried Tom, his eyes wide open. - -In a sort of bowl-shaped valley which nestled snugly at the base of the -encircling hills a purplish spot formed against a shadowed background -the outlines of a ranch-house. - -“Fool’s Castle!” said Thunderbolt, impressively. - - - - -CHAPTER X - -FOOL’S CASTLE - - -The former ranch-house of Walt Allen could only be reached with any -degree of ease from the open country. The hills were rocky, rather -barren, with treacherous declivities and steep descents. - -The thought of an old deserted ranch-house with so much history -clinging about it appealed strongly to Tom Clifton’s imagination. His -curiosity and impatience increased as the distance which lay between -them was gradually cut down, and only compassion for the pony prevented -him from taking the last stretch on a fast gallop. - -The upper portion of Fool’s Castle, rising high above the stockade, -rapidly became stronger. The tall Rambler kept well in the lead, -arriving at the entrance yards ahead of his companions. The great iron -gate which once guarded it no longer barred the way. So, with a loud -“Come on, fellows!” he clattered by. - -All that Billy Ashe had told them was true. The glowing light of -the afternoon sun shed a poetic luster over Fool’s Castle and its -picturesque surroundings. The columns at the entrance, stained and -broken, gave to it the appearance of some ancient temple of the old -world. Here and there, amidst a setting of cedars and firs, all sending -long purplish shadows over the turf, were the mutilated statues and -busts; and at the farther end a little Greek temple revealed its form -in delicate touches of orange and blue. - -“Hooray!” cried Tom. “It’s worth paying an admission to see all this.” -He swung around in his saddle. “Hurry up, Dave. Isn’t it fine?” - -“We owe Walt Allen a vote of thanks,” cried the “historian,” his eyes -shining. “It’s just as though we were dropped from the prairie into an -old Italian garden. Splendid!” - -Urged on by Tom, they pounded over the hard ground, not slackening -speed until the Greek columns at the entrance were towering high above -them. - -Quickly dismounting, picket pins were driven into the ground and horses -tethered. Then, free to do as they pleased, the boys began to examine -the structure which had earned Walt Allen so much notoriety. - -The western end of the building plainly showed the effects of the bolt -of lightning. Just outside the wide, sashless windows smoke and flame -had discolored the walls. - -“Much rain and cowboys help put fire out,” explained Thunderbolt. - -“It’s a wonder it didn’t sweep through the whole place,” said Dick -Travers. - -“I’m mighty glad it didn’t,” remarked Bob. - -“This is simply grand!” cried the “poet.” - -“Come on, fellows; let’s take a look at some of these ‘treasures’ Mr. -Allen was kind enough to leave behind.” - -“So poor old Jed Warren was here, too,” murmured Tom. “Doesn’t it seem -odd?” - -But he found himself speaking to the empty air, for the others, too -eager to wait, were already some distance off. - -Dave Brandon’s face was glowing as he walked from place to place. Now -he stopped before a statue so stained and discolored by its long vigil -in the open air as to make it almost as ancient in appearance as the -original from which it had been copied. Then the “editor” passed on to -a high pedestal surmounted by a bust of some stern-visaged old Roman. - -“Delightful!” he exclaimed. “And look at these cedars and firs! In the -golden effulgence of----” - -“Mercy!” snickered Larry. “What’s that?” - -“A word,” answered Dave. “But I suppose I must drag myself down from -the heights of Parnassus----” - -“Oh--oh! Stop him, fellows!” - -“To the commonplace level of----” - -“The prairie,” supplemented Sam, laughingly. - -Thunderbolt listened to the various comments with an expression which -appeared to indicate that the armor of his stoical Indian nature was -penetrated by a feeling of amusement. - -“You no think him one crazy man, then?” he inquired. - -“Certainly not!” laughed Dave. “He was a credit to himself and the -country.” - -“Let’s go into the house, fellows. There isn’t any door to stop us,” -suggested Tom. - -“I’ll bet it’s full of rats,” said Larry. - -“Or bats,” grinned Sam. - -Stepping upon the porch, in the shadow of the columns, the group paused -at the entrance, to gaze into a grim, dark passageway. - -“Awful black!” commented Larry. - -“Real awe-inspiring,” laughed Tom. - -“Don’t be afraid, little ‘Fear-not.’ I’ll lead the way.” - -The tall lad started briskly ahead, the others crowding at his heels. - -It was very dark, indeed, at first; but a warm, mellow light entered -through the windows of a room just beyond and served as a guiding star. -The sound of voices and footsteps reverberated strangely. The boards -creaked a dismal protest to the unusual treatment accorded them, while -dust rose up in clouds. - -“Hope to thunder we don’t fall into the cellar or some hole in the -floor,” said Larry, who was not at all enjoying the experience. - -“Floor plenty strong,” assured the young Cree. - -The investigators soon found that the first floor of the ranch-house -consisted of three large rooms and a kitchen. The rays of the sun -streaking over the walls revealed the barrenness of their dingy -surroundings and brought out strongly the thick festoons of cobwebs -which hung from the ceiling. In places the plaster had fallen, exposing -the laths. - -To Larry Burnham the old, deserted place, so far away from -civilization, possessed as uninviting an aspect as any house he had -ever seen. The traces of ornamentation, too, which still remained -served only to add to the dreary appearance. - -“For goodness’ sake, let’s get outside,” he said. - -“Not until we’ve visited every room,” said Tom. - -Following the active, tireless Rambler, they trooped up-stairs. Here -they found more to show what the ranch-house must have been in its -prime. In the largest room, probably once occupied by the owner, were -figure decorations painted on the plaster of the ceiling, but now so -faded and otherwise marred by age and dampness as to show only a few -traces of their original design. - -From here the lads wandered to the apartment where the fire had -occurred, examining the charred beams, the smoke-begrimed walls, the -plaster lying in heaps on the floor, and other damage wrought by -lightning and fire. - -“Must have been a pretty hot time in lots o’ ways,” commented Larry. - -“Very interesting,” said Dave; “but that view outside the window -interests me more. Mark the contrast between the rich, deep green of -the firs and cedars and the delicate tones of the temple.” - -“He’s getting worse and worse,” said Larry. - -“Your description, at least, fits my hunger,” laughed Dave. “Who’s cook -to-night?” - -“From the sublime to the ridiculous!” laughed Bob. - -“Larry, of course,” said Tom. - -“I’m neither sublime, ridiculous nor a cook,” grinned Larry. - -The blond lad, the first one down-stairs, breathed a sigh of great -relief. - -“Whew! This place certainly gives me the creeps,” he murmured, with a -shiver. - -The meal was soon prepared, and eaten with great relish. Then the crowd -wandered about the stockade, or explored the hills, until darkness came -and the firelight danced and flickered over the walls of Fool’s Castle. - -“At any rate we’ll have a nice, quiet night, with a roof over our -heads,” said Bob, at length. - -“I’m going to enjoy it,” said Dave, “especially after that -extraordinary rumpus of last evening.” - -“Say, Bob, I’ve been thinking an awful lot about Jed Warren,” remarked -Tom, abruptly. - -“Forget it!” snapped Larry. - -“Go on, go on!” scoffed Tom. - -“I will--to the States,” murmured the big lad under his breath. - -“Our job is to hunt up the border patrol who saw him last,” put in Bob. -“His name is Phil Hughes. Sergeant Erskine said that by keeping due -south from here we could easily find his post near the international -boundary line. He ought to be able to give us a lot of information.” - -“I never heard of such a bunch,” sniffed Larry. - -“Oh, ho,” broke in Dave, with a yawn, “I’m going to lie down. There’s -no earthly use for any one standing guard to-night, fellows, so nobody -need wake me up.” - -“All right--it’s understood,” laughed Bob. - -The stout boy, with a blanket tucked under his arm, presently mounted -the steps; then, one by one, the others followed. - -The fire, piled high with wood, sent a flaring yellow glow through -the windows of the room in which they intended to spend the night. -The corners, however, were very dark and mysterious; and the shadows -flitting about assumed curious, uncanny shapes. - -The Ramblers, long accustomed to roughing it, promptly rolled -themselves in blankets and lay down. Larry did the same. To his tired, -aching body the floor seemed very hard and uncomfortable. He was rather -fearful, too, that wandering rats or spiders might make a voyage of -discovery over his recumbent form. - -“I guess the five husky little travelers will have a surprise in the -morning,” he reflected. “The crowd may be smart, all right, but I sort -o’ think they’ll have to be a bit smarter to outwit little ‘Fear-not.’” - -“We want to make an awful early start, Bob,” Tom was saying; “so we’d -better not do any talking. Pleasant dreams, fellows!” - -Long after the others were enjoying blissful slumber Larry was still -awake. The windows appeared as two glowing parallelograms amidst a -field of darkness. The forms of the sleepers were partially lost in -obscurity. Occasionally one of them stirred; but, apart from this, the -silence was dense--oppressive. - -At last Larry began to slumber, and really being much wearied, was -in a profound sleep when a frightful series of yells and pistol -shots, apparently just outside the windows, brought him to his feet, -white-faced and trembling. - - - - -CHAPTER XI - -THE RIDER - - -The confusion which instantly reigned in that particular room of -Fool’s Castle far outdid the same kind of performance enacted on the -previous night. The boys, springing up, bumped into each other, wildly -scrambling for points of safety, and by every action indicating that -the night surprise had acted with terrific force on their nerves. - -“Help, help!” yelled Larry. - -The pistol shots and yells were ringing out again. Momentarily he -expected to hear the whirr of bullets flying through the open windows. - -What did it mean? - -Bob Somers was the first to regain control of his faculties. Regardless -of the threatened danger, he dashed out of the room. Stout Dave Brandon -followed but a few feet behind. - -Fairly leaping from the porch to the ground, the two, with muscles -still twitching from the excitement, gazed about them. The appearance -of nature had changed. The moon was sending a soft silvery light over -the landscape. It flooded the walls of Fool’s Castle, which rose white -and ghost-like. The “Italian garden,” looking like some spot fit for -the tread of fairies’ feet, seemed as deserted and quiet as a place -could be. - -“Nothing,” said Bob--“not a sign of any one!” - -“Nothing!” echoed Dave. - -A crowd of wildly-excited boys was now fairly tumbling out of the -ranch-house. - -“Who in the world could it have been, Bob?” cried Tom Clifton, striving -hard to appear calm and collected. - -“It was exactly like the rumpus we heard last night,” came from Dick -Travers. - -“And, by Jove, the same person or persons certainly made it!” exclaimed -Sam Randall. - -“Much queer--no understand!” said Thunderbolt. His bronze face showed -unmistakable evidence of great bewilderment. - -And every one of the group was as bewildered as he--astounded at an -event which had happened two nights in succession. Tongues fairly -hurled questions and answers. The cattle rustler theory seemed to be -exploded. - -Standing in plain view, easily exposed to attack, Larry Burnham’s -nerves began to shake so violently as to interfere with his -articulation. - -“Come on, fellows!” cried Bob, suddenly. “They can’t be very far away.” - -“H-h-hold on!” stuttered Larry. “Do you w-w-want to get shot? -S-s-somebody may be h-h-hiding among those trees!” - -“Then let’s find ’em!” yelled Tom, valiantly. - -The lads, their eyes sparkling with excitement, dashed from point to -point of the big enclosure, Larry dragging along unwillingly at the -rear. Now they were by the deep shadows of the cedars; then close to -the graceful columns of the little Greek temple, only halting a moment -at a time to satisfy themselves that no other human beings were near. - -“And yet,” said Bob Somers, voicing the thoughts of all, “those sounds -were right close to the house.” - -“They certainly were,” stammered Larry. - -“I think men have time to get out of stockade,” declared Thunderbolt. - -This reasoning seemed to be correct. The search was carried on with -unabated vigor. But their eager eyes, now turned toward the immediate -surroundings of the enclosure, failed to detect any signs of life. - -“What--what’s to be done?” cried Larry. - -“Let’s try to think it out,” suggested Tom. - -“We’ve gone over almost every possible theory,” said Dave, wearily. -“It’s uncommonly exasperating.” - -“We never know,” murmured Thunderbolt. - -“Confound it all--we will know!” shouted Tom. “Some kind of a crowd is -following us.” - -“Either cattle rustlers or smugglers,” declared Larry, positively. “You -heard what Teddy Banes said about ’em.” - -“But what object would they have in so rudely disturbing our slumber?” -asked Dave, with a negative shake of his head. - -“Just now we don’t know, and can’t know,” said Bob. “Let’s make another -search.” - -Fully an hour was spent before the boys were reluctantly obliged to -confess their failure; and, more and more mystified, they finally -reëntered Fool’s Castle. - -“This ought to be a lesson to us, fellows,” announced Bob Somers. “We -must never miss taking turns on guard.” - -“It was my fault, Bob,” said Dave, magnanimously. - -“And as a penalty I suppose you’ll take the first watch?” grinned Dick. - -“A confession generally means a mitigation of sentence,” laughed Dave. - -It was the stout boy, however, who presently left the room, rifle in -hand, to begin his two hour stretch. - -Larry Burnham was quite amazed to find the others lying down again as -though nothing had happened. But sleep for him was utterly impossible. -So, miserable in mind and weary in body, he lay listening to the soft -footsteps of the sentinel outside, or gazing abstractedly at the moon, -which sent its searching rays through the open windows. - -About the time the sun rose the last sentinel ruthlessly disturbed -those still asleep. - -“Peach of a night, wasn’t it!” exclaimed Tom Clifton. - -“The two nights made a fine pair,” grinned Sam. - -“Ho for breakfast!” cried Dave. - -“Well, well,” murmured the blond lad to himself, when he discovered -that no attention was paid to him. “Looks to me as if so much -excitement has put it all out of their minds.” - -And in this he was quite correct. - -“Ha, ha! I’ll be deserter number two,” he murmured, “What a peach o’ a -little ‘Fear-not’ I am. Maybe I was a bit scared last night. But the -idea of gettin’ a chunk o’ lead is enough to scare any one.” - -After breakfast the crowd followed Dave Brandon into the ranch-house. - -“I have some notes to make,” explained the “historian.” - -“That settles it,” said Tom. “We’ve got to stay here until after -dinner.” - -Larry anxiously waited and watched. But no opportunity to slip away -presented itself. - -The lads, still full of the mystery, continued to speculate upon it -as they walked briskly around the stockade, or wandered over the -surrounding hills and prairie. - -To the blond lad’s extreme annoyance, lunch was late. He began to fear -again that the fates were against him. He didn’t enjoy the meal. And -the way the others lingered over it tried his patience almost to the -limit. - -Hope, however, asserted itself while the dishes were being cleared away. - -“It’s never good to travel right after a big meal,” declared Dave; “so -we’d better remain as guests of Fool’s Castle for another hour or two.” - -“Well, it’s a nice cool place, anyway,” said Dick Travers. “Who wants -to do a bit more exploring--you, Tom?--Good! Come along then.” - -Larry sauntered leisurely toward the door. - -Twenty minutes had passed, when a “Hello, Bob; hello!” in Tom -Clifton’s voice brought the Rambler, who was talking to Dave, Sam, and -Thunderbolt, to his feet. - -“What is it, Tom?” he called. - -“We can see a chap riding in the distance!” cried Tom, excitedly. - -“Gee whiz! That’s interesting!” exclaimed Sam Randall. “Maybe it’s one -of those fellows who serenaded us last night.” - -To Sam’s great astonishment, Bob Somers, without replying, made a wild -dash for the door. His eyes quickly ran over the tethered horses. - -“Just what I was afraid of!” he cried, breathlessly. - -Larry Burnham’s mount was missing. - -“Suffering grasshoppers!” burst out Sam, staring with wide-open eyes. -“He--he--has actually skipped!” - -“Hurry up, Bob,” came from Tom. “Get your field-glass on him. He’s only -a tiny speck now.” - -“Outwitted!” grumbled Sam. - -Bob Somers did not wait to listen. Leaping up the steps which led -to the second floor he rushed into the room where the two lads were -standing by the open window. - -“Only wish he was coming this way,” began Tom. “Quick, Bob. I want a -squint. We may learn something.” - -“We have already!” cried Bob. - -“What--what?” - -Then, as Sam Randall and Thunderbolt burst in upon them, a belated -suspicion of the truth flashed into Tom Clifton’s mind. His mouth -opened; a deep scowl settled on his features; his fists were clenched. - -“Oh--oh! What a dub I was, never to think of it! Oh--oh! It’s -Larry--Larry Burnham; I know it is!” - -Forgetting politeness in his eagerness Tom seized the field-glass from -Bob Somers’ hands and leveled it hastily upon the tiny figure of horse -and rider. - -His fears were realized. There, in a bright circle of light, the -high-power glass showed the image of Larry Burnham and his horse. - - - - -CHAPTER XII - -TOM FOLLOWS - - -“The meanest thing I ever heard of!” cried Tom, handing back the -binocular. - -“A silly chump, all right; but he got ahead of us this time,” exclaimed -Sam Randall. - -“Me no understand why he do it,” came from Thunderbolt. - -“It means that some one will have to ride after him,” remarked Bob, -quietly. “Larry may miss his way.” - -“And get into all sorts of trouble, besides,” said Dick. - -“Fellows,” cried Tom, “I’ll chase him. There isn’t a bit of use in the -whole bunch going.” - -In a fever of impatience he sprang toward the door. - -“Hold on, Tom,” called Sam. “Suppose Larry refuses to come back?--What -then?” - -Tom found a ready answer to this question. Even if the blond lad -should, indeed, decline to listen to persuasion, arguments, or shafts -of sarcasm, his mission would not be a failure. - -“I’ll see him safely aboard a train,” he said. “Then we won’t be -worrying our heads off for fear he’s either lost or starving.” - -“Or done up by those gentlemen who fired off pistols, and uttered such -riotous yells,” laughed Sam Randall. - -Down-stairs, a brief consultation was held. The opinion that Tom should -go alone was not unanimous. - -Tom, however, determined to show his mettle, resourcefulness and -courage, stoutly insisted. - -Then, to end the argument, he ran briskly from the room; and, once -outside, dashed toward the horses at a rate which set them all to -prancing wildly about. - -The tall boy made it a point to be always in a state of preparedness. -His saddle bags and canteens were already filled. What little work -remained to be done he accomplished quickly, and just as the reins -snapped into place sang out: - -[Illustration: “GOOD LUCK, OLD BOY”] - -“Now I’m off, fellows, in search of Larry--and adventure!” - -His companions, standing near the imposing columns of Fool’s Castle, -were waving farewells. - -“Good luck, old boy!” shouted Bob Somers. - -“Don’t worry about me,” yelled Tom, leaping on the pony’s back. “I’m -too old a hand at this game to get into any trouble. So-long!” - -His hand came down sharply on the animal’s flank. Then the interested -onlookers saw their chum galloping swiftly toward the gate, leaving -behind him clouds of yellowish dust. - -Tom’s chagrin had given place to a feeling of elation. Now there was -no one to hold him in check. He was his own master, to ride the great -reaches before him as fast or as slowly as he pleased. Cattle rustlers! -Smugglers!--Bah! He’d like to see any who could frighten him! - -“I know the settlement Larry is bound for,” he reflected--“found it on -Bob Somers’ map. Ha, ha--won’t little ‘Fear-not’ be surprised to see me -flying up behind him?” - -Fool’s Castle soon became but a spot of light in the far-away distance. -Before him was the undulating prairie, the grass and earth sometimes -glowing with color, then shadowed by passing clouds. Although Tom rode -fast, he eagerly kept his eyes open for evidences of the “fugitive.” - -“This isn’t like a paper chase,” he muttered. “Guess even Thunderbolt -wouldn’t find it so easy.” - -Then, for the first time, the lad noted a sense of loneliness beginning -to steal over him. Before, his thoughts had been so busily occupied -that he had scarcely considered anything but duty. Now, however, -without the cheery voices of his companions, or the sight of them -galloping close by, the prairie, vast and almost unbroken, took on a -strangely desolate appearance. - -Not a living thing was in sight; not even a bird. He reflected how -easy it might be for an inexperienced traveler like Larry to lose his -bearings. - -After several hours’ traveling Tom reached a range of hills over which -it was extremely difficult to find a route. Steep and rocky slopes -turned him aside, or thickly-timbered stretches filled with underbrush -made progress very slow. - -“Gee whiz! There wasn’t anything on Bob Somers’ map that looked -like this,” soliloquized the lad. “I wonder how in the world little -‘Fear-not’ managed?” - -As the horse struggled up a steep incline, every impact of its hoofs -sending down showers of turf and stones, Tom’s face reflected his -worried feelings. Long before this he had expected to overtake the -“deserter.” His pride rebelled at the thought of returning to the camp -without him, or not being able to greet his friends with the triumphant -shout: - -“Hello, boys; I saw Larry off on the train, all right!” - -But here was nature conspiring against him--a very unkind proceeding, -he thought. Tom’s lips tightened. A scowl of determination appeared on -his forehead. - -“I’ll find that fellow if it takes a week,” he growled savagely. “The -chaps back there’ll know I’m safe.” - -In spite of his impatience, however, he felt obliged to give his horse -a rest at the top of the hill. Below him was a valley; directly -across, another range of hills, their tree-covered tops showing sharply -against the sky. It all looked very wild--desolate. But for his long -experience in camping out and roughing it his task of finding Larry -would have seemed a hopeless one. - -The Rambler gazed at the cool shadow of the hill already beginning to -climb the side of its neighbor. - -“I declare, this is exasperating!” he said, aloud. “By George, I’ll -give a yell. Maybe the big dunce is near enough to hear me. Hello, -Larry; hello!” he shouted. - -His gruff, deep voice was taken up by the surrounding hills and hurled -back in a series of weird echoes. He waited expectantly. But no answer -was returned. - -“Get up, old boy,” commanded Tom. “Sorry, but you’ve got more hard -traveling before you.” - -The descent was difficult--even dangerous. Frequently his horse’s legs -slid on slippery turf, or were caught in the tenacious grip of tangled -vines. - -Tom’s indignation against Larry returned, and grew in proportion to -the difficulties encountered. - -“Oh, I do wonder why we ever let that big tenderfoot come along,” he -grumbled. “Honest, I don’t believe I was ever more disgusted in my -life. I’d certainly like to take a punch at him.” - -Down in the valley traveling became easier. So Tom urged his horse into -a gallop, keeping up a good pace until the opposite range of hills rose -before him. Here, again, the same difficulties were encountered. - -“All the same, it isn’t going to stop little Stick-at-it,” mused Tom, -determinedly. “If a Northwest Mounted Policeman can ride alone through -places like this I guess I can.” - -After another long, toilsome climb the traveler saw extending before -him a great reach of undulating prairie--a sight which was, indeed, -refreshing. - -“Hooray!” he shouted. - -Pulling up, he critically surveyed the topography of the land somewhat -after the fashion of a general about to plan a strategic move. - -Fully two miles away a river cut across the plain in a northwesterly -direction. - -“It may mean a swim,” he thought. “Come on, old boy.” - -He began to thread his way down the hill, occasionally taking portions -at a rattling pace. - -At the base he stopped to give his horse a good rest and refresh -himself with a few crackers and a drink of water from his canteen. - -One thing greatly puzzled Tom Clifton: had Larry Burnham been left in -the rear, or was his start sufficient to enable him to cross the hills -in advance? - -In view of Larry’s general character the former theory seemed the more -probable. He was not one to conquer difficulties with ease; nor did he -possess any great amount of resourcefulness. The most courageous thing -he had ever done was, probably, actually to undertake this long journey -alone. - -“It shows that being with us has done Larry a whole lot of good,” he -said, aloud. “Why, I believe at first he’d have been scared enough to -blubber if the crowd had ever got out of his sight.” - -He remounted, and, riding at a good clip, soon saw the hills dropping -low behind him, while the line of scrubby trees by the river assumed -strength and color with each passing minute. - -Every now and again he called with all his force, hoping that in a -place where sounds carry such astonishing distances, his cries might -possibly reach the other’s ears. - -No responses, however, were carried back on the breeze. - -Now he could see the river plainly, tinted by the hues of the sky -overhead. - -He quickly cantered across the space which lay between, and on drawing -rein upon the grass-covered bank gave vent to an exclamation of -surprise. The river was far wider than he had expected. - -“Huh! I’ll bet Larry Burnham never crossed this,” he cried, decisively; -“no, sir--never in the world. He can’t swim. This is certainly a pretty -how-de-do.” - -His investigations in either direction did not reveal enough change in -the width of the stream to cause him to alter his opinion. - -“Of course there isn’t a bit of use in crossing,” he exclaimed aloud. -“What’s to be done? By Jove, I’ll camp right here.” - -The lad, thoroughly disgusted, looked around for a suitable place. Some -distance back from the stream a hollow fringed by a growth of scrubby -trees and bushes was discovered. - -“Just as good as though it had been made to order,” he murmured, when -he presently dismounted and picketed his horse. - -Now hunger, thirst and weary bones were beginning to occupy a prominent -place in his thoughts. Working hard, he built a fire and cooked supper. - -By the time it was eaten the sky was already growing gray and somber. -Watching the slow approach of night alone wasn’t half so much fun as -when his friends surrounded him. Perhaps never before had he felt quite -so lonely, or been so much impressed by the solemnity of nature. - -“I won’t be sorry when the moon shows its face,” he reflected. “Gee -whiz--I wonder how poor old Larry feels!” - -Before it became too dark he watered his horse; then returning to the -hollow piled on wood until the tongues of fiercely shooting flames -sent a ruddy illumination far beyond the camp. - -For a while he walked up and down some distance out on the prairie. -The stars were shining brightly, but the intense blackness finally -drove the Rambler back to the little hollow, the only spot in the great -expanse which seemed to hold a ray of cheer. - -At last Tom spread his blanket over the ground and lay down. He began -to think of the splendid account of his experiences he could give his -school-fellows. - -Then the hush of the night, the playful gleams of the fire, combined -with his own fatigue, made a drowsy feeling steal over him; and, on the -border line between sleeping and waking, he lay, scarcely stirring as -time passed on. - -Dimly it began to be impressed upon his mind that the moon was rising. -He could see a glow over the hills which vaguely suggested a far-off -conflagration. A bright rim presently crept over the brow. He was glad. -The awesome darkness would fly. - -Lazily he watched the satellite; then fell into a doze. And when his -eyes opened again, after what seemed to be but a moment’s interval, -he was surprised to see how far it had climbed in the sky. The fire -had died away, leaving a crumbling mass of red-hot coals. It was too -cheerful a companion to be lost. - -So Tom, with a yawn, raised himself on his elbow, intent upon -replenishing it. - -At this instant his ears caught a slight sound which did not seem to be -made by his horse or the breeze. Something impelled him to jump hastily -to his feet--to swing around and face the clump of trees over whose -stunted forms the moonbeams were playing. - -A thrill that was almost a shock suddenly gripped him. He staggered -back. He had made an astounding discovery. - -Sitting silent and motionless in the shadow was a man. His face could -be scarcely seen; but the barrel of a rifle resting across his knees -threw out gleams of light. - -The momentary shock having passed, Tom Clifton was about to speak, -when, to his amazement and alarm, the man sprang to his feet and darted -toward him. - - - - -CHAPTER XIII - -SMUGGLERS - - -Yes, Larry Burnham had outwitted the Ramblers. Smart as they thought -themselves it proved a very easy matter to lead his horse outside the -stockade, mount and gallop away. - -So long as he kept within sight of Fool’s Castle he kept turning -in the saddle; and each time, discovering no pursuers, his grin of -satisfaction increased. - -“I can just imagine how Tom Clifton’ll stamp around and roar,” he -chuckled. “Here’s where little ‘Fear-not’ scores.” - -There was nothing to disturb Larry Burnham’s peace of mind. He just had -to keep riding straight ahead until the settlement was reached; then a -train would speedily carry him back to the States and civilization. - -“But for this miserable Jed Warren business I’d probably have stuck it -out,” he soliloquized. “But such a long wild goose chase!” - -What to do with his horse had at first bothered the boy; but he finally -concluded to have the animal shipped to his father’s Wisconsin farm. - -“All serene,” he laughed. “Even if the bunch are angry I’ll fix it up -with them when they get back to Kingswood.” - -Some hours later Larry’s troubles began. They loomed up in the shape of -hills. He surveyed with dismay the barrier which nature had set against -him. Accustomed to put responsibilities upon others wherever possible, -he was at a disadvantage when compelled to depend entirely upon himself. - -The long detours, the difficulties which beset him on all sides, were -eating up precious time. Often he became confused, lost his bearings, -and, in his impatience plunged blindly ahead, many times forced by -steep declivities or obstructions to retrace his way. - -A troubled look came into his eyes. It was exasperating to be so -balked--to have his well-laid plans threatened with failure. The -thought of Tom Clifton’s laughter, and the sarcastic remarks he would -be certain to make caused Larry’s lips to tighten. - -“Get up, get up!” he growled. “We’ll reach that railroad or leave our -bones on the plain. Ha, ha, ha--that’s a good one! This situation is -makin’ me feel dramatic.” - -Before he at last managed to reach the river the rider had passed a -most unpleasant period. His face was scratched and bruised; while the -jolting and tossing about in the saddle added considerably to the -soreness of his bones and muscles. - -The lad, however, managed to stand all these things with some degree -of patience until he found himself facing a stretch of water far wider -than he had ever expected. - -“Now what am I to do?” he cried, in utter disgust. “By Jingo, I’m -blocked--blocked for fair. Horses are mighty good swimmers, I know; but -trustin’ my safety to a nag when there’s no one around to give me a -hand if anything happens doesn’t suit me.” - -Larry’s impatience soon began to change into genuine alarm. He could -discover no place, either up or down the river, where he dared to ford. -At last, completely at a loss to know what to do, he sprang to the -ground. - -The thought of being obliged to pass the night alone filled him with -dread. For the first time he began bitterly to regret his course. - -“From the map I judged this river to be a small affair like some of the -others the crowd crossed,” he grumbled. “But, hang it all, this might -as well be the Atlantic Ocean.” - -It was a long time before Larry’s unhappy frame of mind permitted -him to get up sufficient energy to search for a camping place. About -a hundred feet from the river a thick clump of bushes spotted the -prairie; and their shelter, he decided, was more inviting than the -broad open stretches. - -After unsaddling and picketing his horse, he drew a hatchet from his -belt and sallied out in search of wood. It seemed as though the irony -of fate was plunging him right into the kind of work he so cordially -detested. - -“I reckon this would make Tom Clifton laugh,” he thought, with a smile -which had little mirth in it. - -The necessity for swift work if he wished to have supper before dark -put some action into his big frame; so, in a comparatively short time, -an armful of wood was carried over to the camp. Larry was doubtful -about his ability as chef, never having prepared a meal in his life. -Still, he reflected, cooking bacon and potatoes requires but little -skill. The quantity of coffee to use, however, puzzled him. - -“I guess it isn’t more’n a cupful, anyway,” he remarked, aloud. - -A roaring fire was immediately kindled and saddle bags unpacked. Larry, -as might have been expected, soon succeeded in burning his fingers, as -well as the bacon. The gravy caught fire, and in attempting to put it -out he knocked several of the largest slices into the flames, thereby -adding for a few seconds a furious sputtering and hissing. - -The coffee had a strangely unfamiliar taste; nor were the potatoes any -better, being burnt almost black on one side and nearly raw on the -other. He was, therefore, obliged to depend almost entirely on the -canned goods and crackers. - -The ill success which attended his efforts served to relieve Larry’s -mind, for a short time, from his greater troubles. They returned, -however, with added force when the tin dishes were cleared away. The -light was fast fading; the hills had become dark and somber. Sounds -of chirping insects, or an occasional cry from some far-away bird, -increased the sense of utter desolation. How heartily glad he would -have been to see the Ramblers about the fire. Even Tom Clifton’s -oddities and annoying ways appeared to him in a different light at this -particular moment. - -While the landscape was in the full glare of sunlight no feelings of -possible danger had worried him. But now his mind began to be occupied -with thoughts of smugglers and cattle rustlers--men whom Teddy Banes -denounced as rough and dangerous characters. And the two mysterious -alarms in the night certainly proved that the half-breed had good -reasons for his warning. - -“Oh, I do wish I had stuck to the crowd!” exclaimed Larry, attempting -to master a nervous feeling which now and again came upon him. “If I -can’t get across this river somewhere it means a jaunt back to Fool’s -Castle. And--and--suppose I can’t find the place?--or the fellows have -gone?” - -He abruptly paused. Such an eventuality quite staggered him. His stock -of provisions would last only a few days. He possessed no knowledge -of woodcraft, or of the ability to keep oneself alive, in case of -emergency, by such edibles as might be found in the woods and fields. -True, Larry carried a rifle; but he suspected, not without good reason, -that any animal would have to be either very large or very close to -stand in danger. - -“Hang it all, I’m in a pretty mess!” he said, disgustedly. - -It was the inaction--the impossibility of making any move for -hours--which drove the usually indolent Larry to pacing up and down -at a furious rate. As the dusk gathered around him he kept closer and -closer to the fire, then, oppressed by the darkness, took a seat close -beside it. - -“Oh, how delightful life in the open is!” he thought. “To hear Tom -Clifton chirp about it a chap might think it was one of the most -glorious things in the world. I’m going to dream about this experience -for a month.” - -At last, hoping he might be able to forget his troubles in sleep, Larry -spread a blanket on the ground and lay down. The long journey had -fatigued him; and this, together with the softly-stirring air, brought -on a condition which soon resulted in deep, heavy slumber. - -Some hours afterward Larry Burnham suddenly awoke. The fire was -practically out. A very faint light came from the rising moon. Vaguely -uneasy, he raised himself to an upright position. - -A sound had aroused him. It came again--a creak, as though made by -wagon wheels. Then, following this, the faint thud of horses’ hoofs was -clearly perceptible. - -With a gasp of surprise, Larry looked eagerly about. - -Over the top of the bushes, scarcely more than a darkish blur against -the landscape, he detected an object moving slowly along. And in -advance, and following, were several horsemen. - -“Great Scott!” he muttered, breathlessly. - -At first a thrill of joy ran through him. Here was relief--men, -undoubtedly, who could put him on the right track. But the impulse to -make his presence known suddenly disappeared. - -Who were they? - -Wasn’t there something queer about a wagon and a silent body of -horsemen passing across the prairie at such an hour? - -Cautiously, Larry dragged himself nearer the bushes. He now began to -feel thankful for having chosen such a secluded retreat, and that the -smouldering remains of his fire were not bright enough to betray his -presence. The horse, too, was lying down. - -The words of Teddy Banes rang in his ears. He strained his eyes to -make out the form of the vehicle. Its blurred outlines, now almost -abreast the bushes, were sufficiently strong to enable him to see its -canvas-covered sides and top. - -“Judgin’ by the speed they’re makin’ it must be pretty heavily loaded,” -thought Larry. - -He listened intently, hoping to catch some stray bits of conversation -which might give him some idea of the character of the men. Not a word, -however, came from the little procession moving so methodically and -steadily by. This curious silence had a peculiar effect on Larry’s -nerves. He felt convinced that he was seeing something entirely out of -the ordinary. - -Time seemed to pass with almost unendurable slowness. He longed to -rise, to stretch his legs--but did not dare to do so until the wagon -and its accompanying horsemen were almost indistinguishable in the -distance. Then Larry Burnham rose to his feet. - -“Score another one for Teddy Banes,” he said, softly. “Sure as I live -it’s a band of smugglers!” - - - - -CHAPTER XIV - -LARRY’S COURAGE - - -“Smugglers!” The word had a very unpleasant sound to Larry Burnham’s -ears. He was sure he had been an actual witness of one of those -expeditions for which the Northwest Mounted Police are continually on -the lookout. - -The blond lad scanned the landscape earnestly. How he longed for -daylight! How slowly the hours would pass! It was bad enough to be -alone in that great wilderness; but it seemed infinitely worse to know -that other human beings were near. - -“Yes, I’ll just go back and take my medicine,” grunted Larry, “and let -Tom do the last laugh business. Why, that big, barren room at Fool’s -Castle would look like a palace to-night. Here’s where I get to work!” - -Larry’s work consisted of walking to and fro, at the same time allowing -his mind to dwell on all the stories he had ever heard concerning -dreadful things which had happened to travelers out in the open. That -same old moon he now saw had looked down upon some mighty strange -scenes. He was quite sure he would never forget how the orb appeared on -this occasion--its shape was so odd, its rays so weird. - -At length he stopped pacing and looked with a searching gaze at the -point in the landscape where the wagon had last been seen. - -“Hello!” he exclaimed, softly; “don’t I see something?” - -His interest became so great that, forgetting caution, he walked beyond -the shelter of the bushes. - -“Great Scott--horsemen again,” he murmured. “Why, the prairie must be -full o’ ’em.” - -Three faint spots not far apart seemed to be moving along at an -extraordinary pace. - -“What in the world can that mean?” thought Larry, becoming excited -again. - -Retreating behind the shelter of the bushes he kept his eyes on the -approaching riders as though fascinated by the spectacle. The three -specks were increasing in size with remarkable rapidity. - -“It looks as though somebody is getting chased,” thought Larry. “That -chap in the lead certainly seems to be doing all he can to get away. -Whew--what a night it has been!” - -At first he was fearful that the horsemen might descend directly upon -his camp. A little study, however, convinced him that unless they -swerved considerably from their course the riders would pass some -distance away. - -There was something so mysterious, so unusual in the scene being -enacted before his eyes that his mind became filled with the most -dreadful misgivings. Now there came to his ears a faint sound of voices -and the rapid hoof-beats of the racing horses. - -“Oh, wouldn’t I give a lot if I had Bob Somers’ field-glass,” he -muttered. “Gee! They’re gainin’ on that chap. In a few minutes more -they’ll have him.” - -Larry’s prediction was quickly verified. He saw the three horses swing -together and form one confused patch of dark against the silvery sheen -of the plain. Almost instantly they came to a standstill. Then, once -more, he heard the sound of voices--angry voices, too. - -“There’s some fellow out there in a whole lot of trouble!” exclaimed -the watcher, half aloud. - -Though with eyes opened to their widest extent and ears primed to catch -the faintest sound, Larry sought vainly to gain some idea of what was -taking place. Curiosity began to get the better of his fears. - -“It surely has something to do with that band of smugglers,” he -thought. “By Jove--look!” - -The three men had wheeled about and were returning in the direction -from whence they had come. All were riding almost as furiously as -before. - -“I’ll bet he’s been taken prisoner!” cried Larry, excitedly, jumping to -his feet. “Gee whiz! Teddy Banes was certainly right!” - -Then he began to experience an uncomfortable feeling that if any -one was in trouble a stern duty lay before him: he must, at least, -investigate. - -“Suppose I got in a fix like that! What should I think of a chap who -stood by and did nothing?” he growled, striking his big chest a blow -with his fist. “By Jove, I’d put him down as a pretty poor specimen!” - -When Larry’s thoughts began to be taken off himself and his own -troubles his courage rapidly rose. - -“Maybe little ‘Fear-not’ will score in this game!” he cried. “And if he -does I’ll make it a point to let Tom Clifton hear all about it.” - -He strode over to the horse. - -“Get up, you lazy creature, get up!” he cried. - -And putting his big hands upon the “lazy creature’s” shoulder he gave -it a violent shove which speedily brought the animal to its feet. - -The change which had come over the “promising football player” within a -few moments was quite remarkable. All his timidity and fear seemed to -have disappeared. Now no one would have recognized in him the lad who -had sheltered himself behind a fringe of bushes. - -For the first time a little get up and go seemed to have crept into his -nature. Faster than he had ever done so before, he saddled the horse. -Then, vaulting upon its back, he rode away at a swift pace. - -The gleams of the rifle barrel resting across the pommel served to give -him a sense of security. Larry actually felt surprised at himself. He -also began to feel a trifle ashamed. Viewing matters from a different -standpoint, he suddenly began to wonder what the boys in Kingswood -would think of his “desertion.” - -“Thunderation!” he growled, angrily. “Maybe they’ll call me a -‘quitter.’ I was sort o’ thinkin’ the joke would be on the other -side; but I guess I’ll be the one that’s going to catch it!” Growing -reckless, he urged his horse into a faster gallop. “Tom Clifton was -right. I’ve been a little ‘Fear-not’ who feared everything.” - -Having come to this unpleasant conclusion, Larry appeared to lose all -caution and restraint. His horse was fresh, the air cool, and almost as -fast as he had seen the mysterious riders dash over the plain, so he -rode in pursuit of them, with the breeze blowing his sandy hair wildly -against his face. - -And all the time he kept an eager lookout for the riders somewhere -ahead. Unless they were making for some pass in the hills he felt sure -his scrutiny would soon be rewarded. The blond lad regarded himself as -quite a hero. - -“By Jinks, I can understand now how the Ramblers feel about these -trips,” he soliloquized. “I must have been asleep all the time.” - -His fiery pony was pounding over the plain at a reckless rate, and the -faster he went the faster he wanted to go. In the exhilaration he felt -almost like shouting. With the bunch grass on every side, it seemed as -though he was plunging into a waste of silvery waves. - -Suddenly a reddish gleam in the midst of a patch of timber caught -his eye; then, as intervening trees came between, flashed out; then -reappeared once more. - -“Whoa--whoa!” whispered Larry, softly. “Here’s a development I wasn’t -expectin’. Where there’s a camp-fire there must be men.” - -Pulling up his steaming horse, some of his old feelings of nervousness -returned. - -“It may be dangerous,” he reflected. “Oh, thunder! Wonder what I’d -better do?” - -For several moments he debated the question; then, making up his mind, -rode to a tree close by, and, dismounting, tied his horse. - -“By George, I’ll sneak up,” he muttered, determinedly. “Little -‘Fear-not’ is going to see this business through to the end.” - -Unslinging his rifle, and using the utmost care, Larry crept slowly -toward the light, which was more often out of sight than in. There -was no sound of voices or anything else to indicate the presence of -campers. This, however, he argued, was not to be wondered at, as the -hour was very late. - -No Indian stealing upon an unwary foe could have used greater care than -he. But not possessing the Indian’s skill the sharp cracking of twigs, -or other noises made by his advance, often caused him to stop, his -heart beating fast. - -“Suppose some one should suddenly pop out from those bushes and draw a -bead on me!” he muttered, shiveringly. - -Several times he was on the point of giving up, but on each occasion -shook his head. - -“If anything happens, it happens!” he said grimly. - -Now came the step which called for all his courage. He could see the -embers, down in a little hollow, glowing brightly. The dark trees rose -before him--ominously dark--their scraggly branches assuming in the -whitish light of the moon a weird and sinister aspect. - -Within their shadows, Larry Burnham, crouching behind a bush, looked -and listened with painful intensity. His mind continually pictured -menacing figures but a few yards away waiting for his appearance. A -crackling of the embers filled him with sudden terror. Only a powerful -effort prevented him from fleeing in mad panic. - -Finally he quelled his shaking nerves, and worked his way to a point -where a clear view of the hollow was before him. The tension leaped -away. He uttered a sigh of heartfelt relief. - -The camp was deserted. - -The instant this discovery was made, Larry, with a boldness in great -contrast to his former stealth, rose to his feet and walked directly -toward the fire. - -The first thing which struck his attention was the appearance of the -ground and grass. The latter in many places was beaten down, while -deep imprints and clods of torn-up earth gave every indication that -some terrific struggle had taken place. And, to add to these evidences, -his eye lighted on a bush, partially flattened, its branches and leaves -scattered about. “By whom?--how?” - -The astounded Larry Burnham asked himself these questions over and over -again. - -The silence, the peace of the enclosure appeared in such striking -contrast to something which he could see only too clearly had taken -place. And the impression on his mind was tremendous. - -“By Jingo!” he murmured, breathlessly, “those shouts and pistol shots -seem tame alongside of this. Believe me, it’s enough to give a chap the -creeps.” - -Bending over, he followed the tracks with the minutest care, then -suddenly straightened up with an exclamation. - -A bit further along, partly hidden by tall grass, he saw several dark -objects. In his eagerness he almost leaped toward them. - -“Great Scott--a bridle an’ saddle!” he exclaimed. “But where is the -horse they belong to? This is another mystery. And, by George, it’s a -hummer!” - -Dragging the saddle to a smoother piece of ground, he began to examine -it. Then, as though something had struck him a blow, he straightened up -and almost staggered back. - -He had seen that particular saddle before. - -“It can’t be possible,” he gasped--“it can’t be!” - -Eager and with trembling hands he looked it over again. Now, all doubts -were stilled. It belonged to a Rambler,--and that Rambler was Tom -Clifton. - - - - -CHAPTER XV - -CAPTURED - - -When Tom Clifton realized the danger that confronted him he was so -taken by surprise that it was several seconds before he had recovered -sufficient presence of mind to leap aside. - -“Hold on--hold on!” he yelled. “Who are you?” - -The other threw aside his rifle, but made no reply. Tom Clifton saw a -pair of long arms outstretched; muscular fingers were ready to grip him. - -Despite the rapidity of the attack, Tom, by an adroit movement, eluded -his assailant. The bewilderment which at first had threatened seriously -to interfere with him was gone. Cool-headed and steady of nerve, he -attempted to leap toward his horse. - -Before he could reach the animal, however, his mysterious adversary was -upon him. - -Desperately Tom Clifton strove to tear away from the arms which -encircled his waist. At the high school gymnasium he had learned a few -tricks in wrestling. One of these broke the hold. - -Then two wildly-struggling figures swayed back and forth in the hollow, -now illuminated by the faint light which came from the fire, then, once -again, beyond its range, with the pale rays of the moon sending their -shadows weirdly over the uneven ground. - -What was the object of the attack? Who could this man be who had -crawled up to his camp and sprung upon him as fiercely as a wolf? He -could find no answer. - -All his strength, skill and cunning responded to his call. He was -outmatched in strength but not in generalship. His rapid movements made -firelight, horse and trees appear to be whirling around and around. -Again and again he tore away; again and again, with the skill of a -boxer, he blocked the hands which attempted to seize him. Once he was -down, sprawling on hands and knees. - -His game defense seemed destined to end in failure; for, as rapidly as -an eagle darts upon its prey, so did the other follow up his advantage. -Tom Clifton gritted his teeth. He heard a cry of exultation. Out of -the corner of his eye he saw the dark figure towering above him. - -Then, with extraordinary swiftness, he twisted around and gripped his -opponent’s leg just in time to prevent himself from being crushed to -earth. - -Involuntarily, the enemy straightened up to keep his balance. And in -that instant the nimble Tom had sprung to his feet. - -“See here,” he managed to gasp between his labored breathing, “let up! -You must have taken me for some one else.” - -There was no reply. - -“If I could only get to that horse!” thought Tom. - -He sprang away, with the other lunging heavily at his heels. - -Dashing madly toward the frightened animal he loosened the picket pin -with a lusty kick. Then, driven to close quarters, faced about. - -The fierce struggle was renewed. The shadows danced faster. The hard, -deep breathing of both grew louder. Only the Rambler’s speed kept -him out of the other’s clutches. The realization that once in his -enemy’s grip he would be rendered helpless nerved him to continue the -resistance with all his strength and resourcefulness. - -The man’s silence, the broad-brimmed hat pulled low, so as to conceal -his features, and his evident determination to win at all hazards -filled him with an alarm he had never felt before. - -An idea had occurred to Tom; and, putting it into execution, he managed -to work his way out of the hollow, at length reaching a point many -yards distant from the camp. - -And now he felt that the instant to make his decisive stroke had -arrived. It was a stroke which would mean either victory or defeat. -With an abruptness which took his adversary completely by surprise, the -lad swung to one side; then, with head lowered, made a mad dash for the -camp. - -Never, even in his base stealing for the “Kingswood High,” had Tom’s -legs moved with such extraordinary rapidity. In his ears were ringing -the heavier footfalls of the pursuer, who was putting forth every -effort to overtake him. - -A last desperate spurt, and Tom was swinging wildly toward the fire, -his eyes fixed on the horse, which at this abrupt and startling -reappearance of its owner began prancing about. This still further -loosened the picket pin, and a blow from Tom’s foot as he passed sent -it spinning over the ground. - -A wild leap astride the back of the bridleless and saddleless horse -was made just as the animal realized its freedom. It was a thrilling -moment, in which a second’s time played a most important part. - -Gripping the pony’s halter with all his force, Tom’s free hand came -down hard on its flank. He saw the dark figure almost within reach, the -muscular arm again extended. He heard a loud: “Whoa--whoa!” come from -the man’s lips. - -But the horse’s legs were already in motion. It plunged headlong -through the underbrush, grazing a tree and causing the rider narrowly -to escape being swept from its back. Only Tom’s long apprenticeship -in the saddle saved him. Away he went over the prairie at a furious -gallop, leaving the hollow and his assailant far in the rear. - -Breathless with fatigue and excitement, Tom Clifton made no attempt -to stop the furious dash of the frightened horse. The cool night air -fanned his cheeks; he felt a sense of wild exhilaration. The victory -was his. Even in those moments, with the ground slipping beneath him at -terrific speed, he thought of the sensation his story would create. - -“Get up, old boy, get up!” he yelled. “Hello--hello!” - -On throwing a glance over his shoulder he had made an unpleasant -discovery--the man was pursuing him on horseback. - -Tom uttered a shrill whistle. - -“He must have had his nag hidden somewhere among the trees,” he cried. -“Well, well, this is an adventure, all right! But he’ll never get -within ten yards of me.” - -In the soft light of the moon the prairie presented a picture of the -most poetic charm. It seemed as though he was plunging ahead into a -land of dreams and unrealities. On one side the distant hills cut in -a broken line against a sky of bluish green; shadows wrapped their -base in mystery; and on the other the silent river glimmered faintly -between the trees or lost its placid surface in somber grays. - -“Great Cæsar!” muttered the lad, suddenly. “What’s that?” - -His eye, once more turning far to the rear, had caught sight of several -specks. One seemed to be a wagon; the others horsemen; and all were -moving slowly in the opposite direction to which he was going. - -Tom Clifton’s mind immediately became busy with conjectures. - -“There’s surely something doing out here to-night,” he thought. “I -wonder if that fellow chasing me doesn’t belong to that party yonder. -Gee whiz! I guess Teddy Banes was right.” - -When he looked around again a wave of relief shot through him. The man -had evidently given up the pursuit, for the forms of horse and rider -now appeared considerably smaller than before. - -“Thank goodness!” exclaimed Tom, fervently. - -The nerve-racking pace, the jolting and bumping could come to an end. -He tugged and sawed on the bridle; he yelled sharp commands, or -uttered soothing words. But a spirit of madness seemed to have gripped -the horse. With eyes distended, and snorting from fear, the animal was -beyond all control. - -“Running away!” cried Tom. “Great Scott!” - -His nerves, already wrought to a high pitch of tension, tingled anew. -The objects moving so rapidly past were making a sense of dizziness -come over him. A fear, too, that his horse might stumble and he be -thrown headlong set him to work desperately on the halter again. - -And while he was doing this with every ounce of strength at his command -two horsemen suddenly rode into view from a patch of timber only a -short distance to the right. - -Tom was now too much occupied, too shaken up and jolted about to have -left any room for surprise. He heard, sounding above the clatter of his -horse’s hoofs, a cry, loud and peremptory--a ringing command to halt. - -At the risk of being thrown, he managed to look behind. - -The newcomers had spurred up their mounts and were racing toward him -at a whirlwind pace. Visions of falling into the hands of a band of -desperate men flashed into his mind. The stern order to stop came again -and again. - -The Rambler made no reply. He no longer sought to control his horse; -but, bending far over on its neck, and, riding with the skill of a -cowboy, awaited developments with a fast-beating heart. - -And developments speedily came. The two horsemen were thundering nearer. - -“Stop--stop, I say!” yelled one. - -“Hold on, or it will be the worse for you!” cried the other. - -What could it mean? Were his adventures never to end? No matter how -hard Tom tried he was helpless to shape events. He realized, too, with -a sinking heart, that the exertions of his horse were fast telling on -him; he was slackening speed. The furious race must soon end. - -One backward glance showed him the foremost of the horsemen almost -upon him. From out of the corner of his eye he could see the blurred -outlines of a man leaning forward with arm outstretched ready to grasp -the halter of his flying steed. His gray shadow shot in advance; then, -neck and neck, the animals tore across the prairie, leaving a wake of -trampled grass and sometimes a flattened bush behind them. - -“I’ve got you, feller!” exclaimed a voice. “You wouldn’t stop, eh?” - -His hand shot across the few inches necessary, gripping the halter with -a strength that could not be shaken. - -As the horses slackened speed the second rider swung around to Tom’s -left. He, too, in another instant, placed his hand on the leather -straps. Aching in every joint, with the breath nearly shaken out of his -body, Tom Clifton felt unable to utter a word when muscular arms, with -a final tug, brought the animal to a full stop. - -“Now I reckon you’ll come to your senses!” exclaimed the man who had -spoken before. - -Tom Clifton straightened up to glance into his captor’s face, which was -clearly revealed by the light of the moon. - -For a second he seemed dumfounded into silence; then a cry of -astonishment came from his lips. - - - - -CHAPTER XVI - -THE LOADED WAGON - - -“Billy Ashe!” exclaimed Tom Clifton, in the greatest amazement, when -his breath and the excited state of his feelings permitted him to speak. - -The trooper seemed to be fully as astonished as the Rambler. - -“You--you!” he cried. “What in thunder are you doing out on the plains -at this time of night? And riding a horse without saddle or bridle?” -His voice became sharp and angry. “Confound it, fellow, you’ve spoilt -the whole business!” - -“What do you mean?” demanded Tom. - -“You’ve made us lose valuable time, besides yelling our heads off to -get you to stop. Don’t you know how far such sounds travel in the -night?” - -“My horse was running away,” snapped Tom. “Didn’t you have sense enough -to know it?” - -“Ah! That was the trouble, eh?” exclaimed the other policeman. “We’ve -been stalking big game, an’ took you to be one of ’em.” - -“Smugglers?” queried Tom, excitedly. - -“Where’s the rest of your crowd?” queried Ashe, abruptly. “Give an -account of yourself--fast, too. We haven’t an instant to spare.” - -His peremptory tone jarred harshly on Tom Clifton’s sensibilities, -especially after all the excitement he had gone through. But, excusing -it on the ground of the urgency of the policeman’s business, the lad, -in brief sentences, told his story. - -“I knew it!” exclaimed Billy Ashe, almost violently, as the last words -fell from his lips. “One of the nicest bits of police work that’s been -done for months all gone for nothing because a nervy kid just bobs up -in time to spoil it.” - -“How have I done anything to hinder you?” demanded Tom, as angrily as -the trooper. - -“But for you we could have tracked the slickest band of smugglers in -Canada to their destination. We’ve been on their trail for hours.” - -“You haven’t lost much time on me.” - -“That isn’t the point. That fellow back there who was watching you -didn’t intend to take any chances of your prying into their game. Now, -you may be sure, he’s put the others on their guard.” - -“Aye, aye!” agreed the other trooper. - -Billy Ashe, a very ambitious young officer, was becoming even more -angry and disgusted. After much patient work, he saw all his efforts -threatened with failure. Since entering the service he had always -kept in mind the idea of some day wearing a sergeant’s stripes on the -sleeves of his scarlet coat. And on this particular job the trooper had -visions of receiving warm commendations from his superior officers. -Tom Clifton had never impressed him favorably; and now, although the -tall lad could not be directly blamed, his presence at a critical time -irritated him, driving away for the moment the natural sympathy he -should have felt. - -Tom, however, was not looking for any. But he didn’t propose to -shoulder undeserved blame. - -“If you’ve made a fluke on the job,” he exclaimed, hotly, “it’s just -exactly as you said yourself: your own shouting must have done it.” - -“I’ll put it all up to Sergeant Erskine,” exclaimed Billy Ashe. “And -when he gets my report I’d advise you to keep far away from the -barracks.” - -“Aye, aye!” said the other trooper. - -“Oh, that doesn’t scare me a little bit,” jeered Tom. “I’ll make a -report to Sergeant Erskine myself.” - -With a sharp command to his horse, Ashe galloped off. - -“Come on, Witmar!” he yelled. “We’ll get the wagon, anyway.” - -“Aye, aye!” answered his companion. - -“Guess I’ll follow this thing up myself,” muttered Tom. “Great Scott! -Just think--I’m going to take part in a chase after smugglers!” - -This thought was enough to stifle his angry feelings, and make him -disregard the shooting pains which were now becoming stronger. - -“Get up!” he yelled; “get up!” - -Although being without saddle or bridle placed him at a great -disadvantage, his horse was a swift, fiery creature--a bundle of -high-strung nerves, ready to dash off at headlong pace upon the -slightest provocation. - -“They won’t leave me very far behind,” muttered Tom, grimly. “I can -guide this nag by knee-pressure as well as any cowboy.” - -The Northwest Mounted policemen, who seemed to have given up hope of -capturing the smugglers, rode furiously. At the pace they set there was -great danger of Tom’s horse running away again. The Rambler knew this, -and though in a reckless and determined spirit, kept all his faculties -alert. The wind was rushing by him once more. An occasional bush seemed -to spring up before his path and be sent flying behind. He saw his -shadow slipping over the ground, waving and wobbling curiously as it -passed over the inequalities. - -And presently a tiny glow showed him his own camp-fire. - -“Wish I had time to skip over for my saddle and bridle,” he thought; -“but business just now is too pressing.” - -The light of his fire quickly faded from view; new scenes sprang up -before him. The hills approached a little nearer to the river. Steep -and precipitous they were at this point, and grimly dark, sending a -delicate shadow over the silvery gray of the prairie. - -The policemen had, naturally, increased their lead, although Tom strove -hard to close up the gap between them. From the shaggy sides of his -horse rose clouds of steam; the pony’s eyes were distended, his ears -thrown back. He seemed to be on the point of bolting again, when the -lad, eagerly gazing over the landscape, saw a dark spot coming into -view. - -“The wagon!” he exclaimed. - -Billy Ashe and his companions were thundering over the prairie as fast -as their horses could take them. And now, as the distance was being cut -down with remarkable rapidity, the canvas-covered wagon began to show -clearly in the moonlight. But there were no indications of horsemen -near. - -Billy Ashe was evidently right. Tom’s appearance on the scene had -resulted in the men’s becoming alarmed and abandoning the vehicle. The -two policemen soon covered the last stretch, and jumped from the saddle. - -Scarcely had their investigations been begun when Tom Clifton clattered -up, sawing away on the halter and yelling sharp commands to his horse. - -“Well, if this chap hasn’t the biggest nerve I ever heard of!” cried -Ashe. - -“They have flown, eh?” exclaimed Tom, when at length he managed to -conquer his fractious steed. - -“I should think they have flown!” growled the trooper, his eyes -flashing angrily. “When a man wants a nice piece of beefsteak he isn’t -satisfied with gravy. We were after the men--not a wagon-load of -contraband stuff, eh, Witmar?” - -“Aye, aye!” said his companion. - -“You can’t put the blame on me,” cried Tom, hotly. - -“I do--and so will the sergeant.” - -“Get out! This is a free country, isn’t it?” - -“It’s not free for any one to interfere with the business of the -Northwest Mounted.” - -“What’s in that old chuck wagon?” demanded Tom, impatiently. - -Witmar had pulled open the flap, and, by the aid of a pocket -search-light, was examining some of the contents. - -“We are not supposed to answer questions put to us by strangers,” -interposed Ashe, who was in such a disappointed frame of mind that he -found it hard to speak with civility. “Come--get out. What do you want -to do--take charge of the wagon--and us besides?” - -“Aye, aye! I reckon he’d like to,” said Witmar. - -“Is this a private park?” demanded Tom. “Where are the ‘keep off the -grass’ signs? Have you any authority over me?” - -“I have authority to arrest any one who interferes with us,” returned -Ashe, threateningly. “There’s many an old stager on the force who might -run you over to the barracks if you didn’t light out the moment he said -the word.” - -“Aye, aye! I’ve seen it done,” said Witmar. - -“Well, you won’t see it done in this case!” cried Tom, wrathfully. -“You’re supposed to protect people. How do I know that the fellow who -pitched into me isn’t lying around somewhere ready to tackle the job -again just as soon as I stray far enough away from the Mounted Police, -eh?” - -“There’s reason in that,” said Witmar. - -Billy Ashe did not reply. Although the smugglers had escaped there -was still much work to be done. The contraband goods would have to be -conveyed to the settlement, where a police post was located; and that -meant one of them would have to remain on guard while the other went in -search of a team. - -“Where do you suppose this wagon was bound?” asked Tom. - -“That’s what we should have found out but for you,” growled Ashe. “Once -these chaps know we’re hot on their trail they’ll keep under cover, -maybe for months.” - -The two troopers climbed into the wagon, and from bits of conversation -which Tom now and then overheard he felt sure they had made a valuable -find of contraband goods. - -The canvas-covered vehicle, resting motionless upon the prairie, -with its deep shadow cutting over the ground, produced a singularly -picturesque effect. The soft moonlight, too, added an impressive -appearance of size. To Tom Clifton’s mind it vaguely suggested some -huge monster brought to bay and rendered helpless. - -He wondered in which direction the men and horses had gone. He -carefully studied the landscape, the hills, the obscure distance -touched with faint lights and delicate shades. Somewhere in that great -expanse were concealed the forms so eagerly sought. - -Then, in another moment, the channel of his thoughts was rudely -changed. A horseman, galloping hard, suddenly appeared. He was headed -directly for the wagon. - -At the same instant the troopers also discovered him. - -“Well, did you ever!” cried Tom, excitedly. “What in thunder----” - -Ashe and Witmar sprang to the ground. - -“He’ll have to give a good account of himself!” cried the former. -“After him, Witmar!” - -Their precaution, however, was unnecessary, for the oncoming rider made -no effort to change his course. - -Not a sound came from the three as they watched him coming nearer and -nearer, until at length his figure was clearly in view. Then Tom -Clifton uttered a shout of surprise and exultation. - -“By George--if this isn’t the greatest piece of luck I ever heard -of!” he yelled, almost wildly. “By all that’s wonderful, it’s Larry -Burnham!” - - - - -CHAPTER XVII - -THE WHOLE CROWD - - -It was, indeed, the big Wisconsin lad. And although Larry felt almost -staggered by surprise he overcame it by a tremendous effort. - -“Good-evening, Tom,” he exclaimed, pulling up his horse with a jerk; “I -thought I’d run over with these things. They seem to belong to you.” -Whereupon he lowered to the ground Tom Clifton’s property. - -Tom, not to be outdone, controlled his own astonishment. - -“Thanks, Larry,” he said. “I was in a bit of a hurry, and so left ’em -behind.” - -“Why, these chaps seem to be spread out all over the prairie,” -exclaimed Ashe. - -“Aye, aye!” laughed Witmar. - -Of course neither of the boys could restrain their impatience long. -Larry simply burned with curiosity to learn what had taken place, and -Tom was equally anxious to hear about “Little Fear-not’s” adventures. -He even forgot to be disgusted with the big lad; while Larry, in his -excitement and jubilation, entirely lost sight of his previous chagrin -and disappointment. - -The boys’ tongues flew rapidly. Larry touched but lightly upon his -dismay at finding himself cut off from the settlement by the river; nor -did he mention the dreadful moments passed behind the shelter of the -bushes. Indeed one might have supposed that observing the movements of -smugglers on a moonlight night was quite the most enjoyable thing in -the world. - -And at any other time he would have burst into peals of laughter -at Tom’s thrilling description of his struggle with the mysterious -assailant. But, under the circumstances, he was tremendously impressed -with the seriousness of the encounter. In fact the two big lads seemed -to have reached a better understanding of one another than they had -ever had before. - -“I was a dub to want to leave you chaps,” said Larry, candidly. “Jolly -fine for you to come after me, Tom, an’ I won’t forget it.” - -“We couldn’t think of losing such good company,” laughed the Rambler. - -“Well, fellows,” put in Billy Ashe, “you’ve had a pretty lively night -of it. Now I’m going to skip.” - -“Where to?” asked Tom, interestedly. - -“Over to the settlement. Witmar’ll stay here to guard the wagon.” - -“Aye, aye!” said Witmar. “And a tiresome job, I call it.” - -“Oh, we’ll stick by you,” said Tom. “Good company always seems to make -the time pass faster.” - -“How are you going to get across the river, Mr. Ashe?” asked Larry. - -“Easy enough. The horse can wade. It isn’t over a man’s waist line.” - -“Goodness gracious,” muttered Larry. - -He felt half ashamed and half amused when he reflected how completely -he had allowed the stream to block his plans. - -“Still, it may be for the best,” he thought. “Honestly, I believe this -experience has done me a pile of good. Besides, I’ve learned what a -fine chap Tom Clifton really is.” - -Billy Ashe, who had been conversing earnestly with Witmar, suddenly -sang out: “So-long, fellows! Maybe I’ll see you again.” - -“You certainly will,” laughed Tom. “Good-bye, and good luck!” - -“Exactly my sentiments, too,” cried Larry. - -The lads eyed the form of the trooper, rapidly growing smaller in the -distance; then, when a patch of timber finally hid him from view, -dismounted and picketed their horses. - -“It’s a long time before daylight,” said Witmar. “I’d advise you to -take a snooze.” - -At first neither of the boys felt disposed to accept his suggestion. -The excitement of the night had affected their nerves to too great an -extent. But finally tiring of walking up and down, or endeavoring to -draw the silent policeman into conversation, they spread out their -blankets and lay down. - -Tom was continually finding something new to relate about his -adventures, and Larry, also, discovered several points he had omitted. -Gradually, however, under the influence of the silent, peaceful night, -their lively tongues began to be heard less and less, and in another -hour Witmar alone was awake. - -[Illustration: THE WHOLE CROWD WAS THERE] - -To Tom Clifton it seemed but an instant when his slumber was broken -by the sound of voices and pounding of horses’ hoofs. He had a dim -consciousness that this was but the part of a dream, until Witmar’s -voice, raised as though in a loud hail, effectually startled sleep from -his heavy eyes. - -Tossing aside the blanket, he rose to a sitting position, then uttered -a loud exclamation. - -Several horsemen, riding at a good pace, were bearing down directly -upon the wagon, and, to his unbounded amazement and delight, he -recognized in the foremost the sturdy, athletic form of Bob Somers. - -With a yell as loud as any Indian war-whoop the Rambler sprang to his -feet, in his haste almost sprawling over the prostrate form of Larry -Burnham, who, aroused in this startling fashion, added a weird cry to -the din. This was about the last thing in the world the blond lad had -expected. - -He rubbed his eyes. Could it be possible? Yes, the whole crowd was -there. The early morning sunlight bathed them in a rosy glow, while -from revolvers and horses’ trappings came flashes and streaks of -gleaming light. - -“Bob Somers!” cried the delighted Tom, darting forward. “Great Scott, -but this is jolly--a glorious surprise!” - -“Aye, aye! It certainly is,” admitted Witmar. - -“I’m nearly bowled over!” cried Larry. - -A chorus of salutations came from the newcomers. They were all in -a hilarious frame of mind. Thunderbolt’s coppery-hued visage, too, -expressed the pleasure he felt. - -“Didn’t expect us, eh?” laughed Bob. “Mighty glad to see you, Larry.” - -Larry Burnham felt decidedly sheepish, for he realized that he had put -the crowd to a great deal of trouble. - -“They must think I played a mighty mean trick on ’em,” he mentally -concluded. “Hang it all, I don’t see why I ever did such a thing!” - -He waited in anticipation of either complaint or sarcastic remarks, -but, to his surprise and gratitude, none came. - -Of course it was some time before the excitement quieted down, and the -Ramblers, on foot, gathered by the side of the wagon. Trooper Witmar -surveyed the crowd with a quizzical smile. - -“One might think,” he remarked, “that you chaps hadn’t seen each other -for a month.” - -“I guess it does look that way,” laughed Dave. He glanced at Tom. “I -guess you’ve had a rather quiet time of it, eh?” - -“Quiet time!” cried Tom. “Well, I rather think not! I had the fight of -my life.” - -This startling announcement immediately brought to a stop a volley of -inquiries relative to the wagon and the presence of the trooper. Dick -Travers, who had just uttered the word “Smugglers!” echoing a terse -observation of the policeman, turned to stare at Tom in the utmost -amazement. - -“A scrap--a real scrap?” he cried, wonderingly. - -“It certainly was a real scrap!” And Tom, who hugely enjoyed the -sensation he had created, launched forth. - -His tale held his listeners spellbound; and this time the Rambler did -not forget a single point. - -Numerous were the exclamations which punctuated his remarks. - -“Well, that’s certainly a story with a punch to it!” cried Dick Travers. - -Tom was bombarded with questions. The minutest particulars were -insistently demanded. Like a lawyer cross-examining a witness, Sam -Randall drew from him all the particulars he could in regard to his -mysterious assailant. - -“My, what a pity you didn’t get a good view of the fellow’s face,” he -exclaimed, finally. “Think you’d recognize him again?” - -“You bet!” cried Tom--“and lined up among a dozen.” - -The crowd was not satisfied until Larry Burnham’s experiences were -related; and not once during the whole recital did they make any -unfavorable comment. Of course Larry could see that all this must -have been arranged beforehand; but it increased his feeling of -gratitude, especially as his companions highly praised his action in so -courageously following the three riders. - -“After such thrilling tales our own seems tame enough,” said Bob. -“Several hours after you had gone, Tom, as things began to get rather -dull, we decided to make a run over to the settlement ourselves. We -camped on those hills yonder for the night. Sam, who was the early -morning watch, sighted the wagon--you know the rest.” - -“You’re a great lot,” laughed Witmar. “What’s the next thing you’re -going to be up to?” - -“I heard there’s been quite a bit of cattle rustling going on around -here. So I suppose there must be ranch-houses within easy riding -distance?” - -“Aye, aye!” said Witmar. “The nearest is Jerry Duncan’s. A fine chap he -is, too. Jerry’s lost quite a bunch of steers.” - -“If there’s a house so close I propose we call on the owner,” put in -Dave Brandon. “After such a long ride we ought to have a good rest -before going on our trip to the border.” - -The thought of a nice big room proved so irresistible to the -comfort-loving Dave that he spoke eloquently on the subject. And the -crowd, never liking to go against his wishes, finally put the question -to a vote. - -Tom, notwithstanding his anxiety to reach their destination, cast his -ballot for the affirmative side, remarking: - -“Who knows, fellows, perhaps Jerry Duncan may be able to give us some -information about Jed Warren?” - -Policeman Witmar, who had heard from Billy Ashe all about the amazing -search of the Ramblers, much to the tall boy’s astonishment guffawed -loudly. - -“Well?” demanded Tom, in his gruffest voice. - -Witmar diplomatically evaded a direct answer. - -“There are lots of ranchmen and cowpunchers over in that direction who -knew Jed Warren,” he said. - -“That settles it,” declared Tom. “I’m glad we’re going.” - - - - -CHAPTER XVIII - -ASKING QUESTIONS - - -“If you chaps are pining for adventure this certainly doesn’t look much -like it,” remarked Larry Burnham. - -The seven, led by Thunderbolt, were traveling in the direction of Jerry -Duncan’s ranch. - -“You never can tell,” grinned Dick. - -“I’m afraid the Rambler Club won’t solve any mysteries on this trip,” -insisted Larry. - -“Don’t you fool yourself,” retorted Tom. “Wait and see.” - -In another half hour the lads were approaching a range of hills, rather -higher and wilder-looking than any encountered before. Great numbers of -cattle bearing Jerry Duncan’s brand grazing on the plain and up over -the slopes gave a cheering indication that somewhere among the rolling -ridges his ranch-house was located. - -Thunderbolt assured them that any one unacquainted with the topography -of the country would have a hard task to find it. - -“Why in the dickens did they ever build in such a place?” cried Tom. - -“Much nice,” said Thunderbolt. “In winter wind no so strong. A creek -close by and many trees.” - -After skirting the hills for about a mile the young Indian halted, and -pointed to a deeply-shadowed break in their rugged slopes. - -“We go through pass,” he explained. - -“It’s a rather wild-looking place,” commented Dave. - -“I sort o’ think it’ll make me wild to ride through it,” murmured Larry. - -In spite of his lesson he felt discontented feelings coming over him -again. He longed for the camping-out time to arrive, when, lolling in -the pleasant shade of some tree, he could read, or otherwise amuse -himself. - -On all sides of the gorge, which the lads soon entered, was a beaten -trail made by the passing of countless horses and cattle. Though often -turned aside by grim-looking boulders, groups of stunted trees, or -thickets, they made good progress. - -“I see it,” sang out Tom. - -Just above a jutting crag the upper part of the ranch-house, glowing in -the sun, had appeared to his eagerly searching vision. - -“Jerry Duncan’s!” exclaimed Thunderbolt. - -“Hooray!” cried Tom, spurring his horse into a gallop. - -Now over a smooth grassy stretch, the seven swung along, and, sweeping -around a rocky barrier, saw the solid, substantial home of Jerry Duncan -rising before them. It was surrounded by a wide, cozy-looking porch, -and not far in the rear stood a commodious stable. - -Resting in a cup-shaped enclosure between the hills, the ranch-house -suggested a pleasing retreat. The shadow of the opposite range was -already beginning to steal across the grassy floor over which a number -of horses and cattle were grazing. At their rapid approach the deep -baying of a dog chained to a post echoed startlingly clear. - -On the instant two men came running out of the house. - -“Hello!” yelled Bob Somers. “Is Mr. Duncan in?” - -A short, stout man, whose face, deeply browned by exposure to the -weather, wore a most jovial expression, spoke up. - -“My name’s Duncan,” he exclaimed. “For gracious sakes, boys, who are -you, and----” - -“I’ll finish the sentence,” laughed Tom. “Where do you come from? I -never saw a parcel of boys traveling over the country like this before.” - -“Exactly; you couldn’t have hit it better.” - -The lads did not lose any time in acquainting Mr. Duncan and his -cowpuncher with enough information to satisfy their curiosity. - -“Jed Warren!” exclaimed the ranchman reflectively. “Why, to be sure, -I know him. He was often around these hills, and, excepting for the -border patrol which you mention, the very last man to see him was a -chap back there.” - -A comprehensive wave of the hand indicated that “back there” meant the -same direction in which the boys had been traveling. - -“What’s his name?” asked Tom, eagerly. - -“Oscar Lawton. How far is it? Oh, about five miles. Easy to get there? -Yes--in an aeroplane.” - -The good-natured cattleman laughed. - -“Let’s take a chance on it, fellows,” cried Tom, eagerly. - -“Oh--oh! Just listen to him!” groaned Larry. - -“A good detective never allows a single clue to get by him,” insisted -Tom, with an air of superior wisdom. - -“Oh, yes; I suppose that settles it,” returned Larry, wearily. - -“I agree with Tom,” remarked Sam Randall. “Since we started out on this -job let’s be able to say that everything possible has been done to -clear it up.” - -“That’s the idea!” exclaimed Bob, heartily. - -“You’d better come in and rest for a while,” said Mr. Duncan, “and get -a bite to eat.” - -“Joy--oh, joy!” murmured Larry. “Of course we will.” - -After spending over an hour in the pleasant shade of the porch, -indulging in roast beef sandwiches, plenty of coffee and other good -things, the crowd voiced an emphatic vote of thanks. - -The cattleman insisted on their coming again. “Because,” explained Mr. -Duncan, with a rather suspicious twinkle in his eye, “I want to know -how this detective work of yours turns out.” - -“We’ll certainly drop around and tell you,” cried Bob, heartily. - -Then began a long, tedious march over high ridges where nature seemed -to have put up many barriers, not only to endanger the safety but also -to wear out the patience of unwary travelers. The young Cree, however, -proved himself to be a most excellent guide. No difficulty was too -great for him to overcome; and, as little time was lost in detours, -the ranch-house for which they were seeking came into view long before -Larry Burnham had expected. - -The building rested in a broad, grass-covered valley almost midway -between the hills. And on nearer approach its rather neglected -appearance became strikingly evident. - -But the boys, weary with their long ride, paid no attention to this. -They were too eager to meet the owner, and then continue on their long -journey southward to the border. A great disappointment awaited them, -however. - -Oscar Lawton, they were informed by several men lounging about, was -miles away on the open range. And none could state the exact time of -his return. - -“Oh, this is perfectly awful!” cried Larry Burnham, in exasperation. -“Won’t it ever end?” - -“Jed Warren!” exclaimed one of the men, in answer to a question. “No; -we don’t know nothin’ about Jed Warren. What in thunder are you fellers -expectin’ to do--ketch up with that there scarlet jacket?” - -“Our expectations cannot be measured in words,” drawled Larry. - -“Is there another ranch near by?” asked Bob. - -“Oh, yes; there’s several of ’em hereabouts,” answered a cowpuncher. - -“Well, then, let’s go to one or two more, fellows,” suggested Tom -Clifton. “If Mr. Lawton saw Jed perhaps some other people have, too.” - -“Ah! Much good,” approved Thunderbolt. “Sure! Maybe we learn -somethings.” - -As long as they remained in sight the cowpunchers kept waving their -hands in farewell. - -“I don’t suppose you chaps feel a bit discouraged even yet,” said -Larry, satirically. “I’d call this perseverance and perversity.” - -“Oh, we’ve just begun,” chirped Tom. - -Another long ride followed. Sometimes the lads traveled over hills; -then, again, across the undulating plain, or forded narrow streams. -And Larry was as hopelessly mixed on their location as a boy could be. -Herds of grazing cattle were often encountered, and left behind. - -Even the sanguine, hopeful Tom began to lose his accustomed air of -cheerfulness after several ranches had been visited without a scrap -of information being gained. Things were not breaking very well, he -reflected; and it made him feel angry and disgusted indeed. - -“We go some more ranches?” asked Thunderbolt. “Not many mile from Jerry -Duncan’s is one. What you say?” - -“Don’t ask, but just go,” said Larry. “And when we get through there -take a short cut to the next.” - -Some time later they came once more in sight of the range of hills -in which Duncan’s ranch was situated, though at a point considerably -further to the east. The late afternoon sun sent a mellow glow over -the landscape, touching boughs and branches with golden luster, and -sending long purplish shadows down the slopes or trailing over the -ground. - -“No far now,” announced Thunderbolt. - -He swerved to the right, leading them toward the base of a hill which -jutted out a considerable distance on the prairie. - -“And I, for one, propose to stay there for the night, if the owner is -willing,” announced Dave. - -“I’ll back you up,” cried Larry. “Who runs this ranch, Thunderbolt?” - -“Him called Hank Styles,” answered the young Cree. - -“And I do certainly hope to goodness Hank is in,” said Tom. - -“He hasn’t much of a looking ranch-house,” remarked Bob, as the -building gradually came into view. - -Certainly the abode of Hank Styles and his cowpunchers was not -calculated to impress the visitors with favor. It had a crumbling, -neglected appearance. Everything about the place suggested age and -decay. - -“I hope Mr. Styles doesn’t correspond in looks to his building,” -remarked Sam Randall. “If he does, perhaps we’d better keep on to Jerry -Duncan’s.” - -“So say I,” laughed Bob. - -“Ah! He come now,” said Thunderbolt, suddenly. “Him much little fellow.” - -A man had appeared in the doorway, and after gazing long and earnestly -at the approaching horsemen, stepped down and walked toward them with -long, swinging strides. - -“Thank goodness,” exclaimed Tom. “In luck at last. Good-afternoon, -Mr. Styles,” he added, raising his voice. “We’ve come to see you on -important business. What do you know about Jed Warren?” - - - - -CHAPTER XIX - -BOB RIDES ALONE - - -The ranchman, at this salutation, stopped short and stood looking -fixedly at them. - -“How do you do, sir?” said Dave, politely. - -“Well, what do you want?” demanded Hank Styles. “What do you want, I -say?” - -There was such ungraciousness expressed in his manner and tone that the -boys felt considerably surprised--a surprise which prevented them from -replying until the ranchman had spoken again. - -“Can’t you answer a civil question?” he snarled. - -“We are looking for Jed Warren,” explained Bob Somers, “and thought -possibly you might know something about him.” - -“Jed Warren!” repeated the man. “What should I know about Jed Warren?” - -“Didn’t you ever meet him--a mounted policeman?” cried Tom. - -“Well, I’ve seen lots of the redcoats around; an’ maybe I have, an’ -maybe I haven’t. Who sent you here?” - -“Nobody sent us.” - -“Well, then, you’d better go away. Ask somebody else.” - -“See here, Mr. Styles,” interposed Dave, “would you have any objection -to our resting a short time in your house?” - -This request brought a sudden change of expression into the ranchman’s -face. - -Of all the boys lined up before Mr. Styles no one was surveying the -situation more keenly than Tom Clifton. He was vaguely impressed with a -feeling that something was behind the man’s peculiar manner; and this -idea growing, as ideas usually did with Tom, he sprang to the ground, -exclaiming: - -“A good scheme, Dave. No objections, I suppose, Mr. Styles? Come on, -fellows!” - -“How long are you going to hang around these parts?” demanded Styles. - -“Some considerable time,” replied Tom, greatly to the astonishment and -disgust of Larry Burnham; “and we’re going to camp right within sight -of your ranch-house. It’s dangerous out on the plains after dark. I -was attacked the other night; and if I ever run across the chap who did -it he’ll get all that’s coming to him.” - -Then, while the occupant of the ranch eyed him with a peculiarly -sinister expression, Tom began striding toward the dilapidated building. - -“Hold on, there!” The command came sharp and peremptory. “You’re in an -awful big hurry, ain’t you? Can’t even wait till a man tells you he’s -ready!” - -“Better picket your horse, Tom,” cautioned Sam Randall. - -Bob Somers, viewing the trend of affairs with considerable surprise, -exchanged a significant look with Dave, who immediately eased himself -from his saddle with a sigh of relief. - -“I’ll follow your example, Tom,” said the writer, as the tall boy drove -in a picket pin. - -“So shall I,” said Bob. - -Larry Burnham was considerably astonished also, but in a different way. -He regarded the action of the Ramblers as a decidedly cool proceeding. -Here they were practically forcing themselves upon a man whose every -action indicated that their presence was by no means welcome. - -“I don’t wonder Hank Styles looks a bit peeved,” he reflected. “Gee! -It’s certainly awful nerve on their part.” - -“The house ain’t in no condition to receive visitors,” explained the -ranchman. - -“Oh, no matter,” said Tom. - -“Yes, but it does matter. You can just stay here until I get things in -a little more ship-shape order--understan’?” - -Without ceremony, Hank Styles abruptly turned and reëntered the house. - -“You’re a jolly nice lot,” began Larry. - -“Just close down on any talk of that sort,” snapped Tom. “Don’t you see -something queer in the way that man’s acting?” - -“I don’t wonder at it, after the way you’re actin’.” - -“You leave things to us.” - -The blond lad looked at Tom in wonderment. - -“What’s the matter?” he demanded. - -“I’m not saying anything,” answered Tom. - -“That’s the way the rest ought to do,” said Dave. “Keep cool, Tom. You -know jumping at conclusions sometimes only makes a chap tumble to his -own folly.” - -“Humph! I suppose this is another mystery,” snickered Larry--“never to -be solved.” - -“Hank Styles is a pretty rough-looking customer,” said Bob. “I think -I know what’s been going on in your mind, Tom. A chap is justified in -trying to find out all he can in a case like this. Fellows”--he raised -his hand impressively--“no objections, now. What I am going to do may -be only the result of a foolish whim, but perhaps it may do some good, -after all.” - -“What’s the idea?” demanded Tom, breathlessly. - -“I’ll skip off. All of you go in the house. With such a big bunch -around he’ll probably never miss me. Even if he does it can’t do any -harm.” - -“But look here, Bob,” protested Sam Randall. - -“Not a word,” warned Bob. “Don’t pay the slightest attention to -me--remember!” - -“Go as far as you like, Bob,” whispered Tom. - -Hank Styles reappeared at the door a short time later. His manner had -undergone a decided change. - -“Come right in, fellows!” he called. “I straightened things up a bit; -an’ there’s a nice room where you kin rest jist as long as you like.” - -Bob Somers, Dave Brandon and Larry Burnham kept to the rear of the -little procession which immediately started off. - -Just as they reached the steps of the ranch-house Bob Somers dropped -behind, and, while the rest crowded toward the entrance, the Rambler, -with a quick, noiseless tread, slipped around the side of the house. - -Pausing for an instant to study his surroundings, he headed directly -toward a spur in the hills thickly overgrown with bushes and only about -a hundred feet distant. Several times he turned, half expecting to see -other men around the ranch. - -But from the rear the old house presented a picture of loneliness -and desolation. Even the dilapidated sheds and stable close by were -apparently deserted, although, through an open door, he caught a -glimpse of several horses. - -“I’ll admit if a motion picture photographer had his camera trained on -me I’d feel rather foolish,” muttered Bob, when he reached his goal -and threw himself flat on the ground behind the bushes. “I don’t know -exactly why I’m here--but I am here! If I don’t see anything suspicious -within a half hour or so guess I’d better go back to the crowd.” - -From his position he was able to get a good view of both buildings, and -at the same time was thoroughly concealed by the bushes. - -The lone watcher, busily debating in his mind the question as to -whether he was acting foolishly or pursuing a course of wisdom, -answered the problem to his own satisfaction within the next five -minutes. - -The back door of the house opened, and three men came hurriedly out, -almost running toward the stable; and the one in the rear he recognized -as Hank Styles. - -“Good gracious!” murmured Bob. “There’s something doing, sure as I -live. Wonder what in the world has become of the fellows?” - -Now he felt thankful indeed that his forethought had been, apparently, -wise. There was something so hasty in the movements of the men as to -convince him that they were on no ordinary errand. - -They disappeared inside the stable, and the sound of their voices came -over the air, mingling in with the stamping of horses’ hoofs. - -“Ah! They are saddling their mounts,” murmured Bob. “Mighty -interesting, I call it.” - -Snuggling closer among the bushes the Rambler peered eagerly through an -opening. - -“Ah!” he breathed. The men were leading their horses outside, at the -same time talking in excited tones, but too low for the words to reach -him. “Going to skip, eh?” - -One of the trio began tearing a bit of paper into strips. Then, taking -off his sombrero, he dropped the pieces inside, while the others, -standing near by, gesticulated in an angry fashion. Not a move was -lost to Bob Somers’ eager gaze. Their actions bore out in an almost -startling fashion his idea that something was up. - -“Ah!” he muttered again. - -Little Hank Styles was holding his hat high in the air. - -Two arms were immediately outstretched, as his companions one after -another drew forth a slip from the hat. Each seemed to scan the pieces -with great eagerness. The next instant Hank Styles and another burst -into a loud peal of laughter and began to slap their knees and give -other evidences of extreme satisfaction. The third, however, indicated -his displeasure in a way there could be no mistaking. He shook his fist -in the air and at the house. And all this seemed to excite further the -risibilities of the other two. - -Bob Somers was clearly puzzled. - -“I can’t understand it,” he mused. - -Now the cattlemen were engaged in a most earnest and animated -conversation. Frequently voices rose higher. Then, as though arriving -at some understanding, the three sprang on their horses, cracked their -quirts and were off. - -Two rode away in the direction of the open prairie, while the third, -the man who had become so angry, wheeled about and headed in Bob’s -direction. - -The Rambler’s nerves did not forsake him. Lying flat on the ground he -contrived to shield his body still more by the aid of the bushes and -tall grass which grew around him in profusion. As the hoof-beats of -the horse told of the rider’s rapid approach he felt his heart beating -faster. Discovery might lead to most unpleasant results. With muscles -tense, he was ready to spring to his feet at the first intimation of -danger. - -But the rider clattered by without seeing the amateur detective. - -Then there flashed into Bob Somers’ mind a possible explanation of the -men’s peculiar actions. - -“They must have drawn lots,” he exclaimed. “By Jingo, I’ll bet that’s -it. If I followed this chap I might make some more interesting -discoveries.” - -His thoughts reverted to the crowd. Why had none of them appeared? -Were they sitting comfortably in the ranch-house, unmindful of the -fact that their host had flown? His confidence in his friends was too -great to make him feel uneasy about their safety. He had the choice of -two decisions. And if he selected the one he was almost irresistibly -prompted to do it meant leaving without an instant’s loss of time. - -“Of course they’ll know I’m safe,” reflected Bob. - -Cautiously he rose to a sitting position, for the sound of the horseman -could still be heard. - -“Yes, I’ll risk it,” he muttered, with grim emphasis. “Better a failure -than to be wondering always if a good chance had slipped by.” - -Now he stood upright, and still fearful lest other men should have -remained in the vicinity of the house took a quick survey before -venturing forth. Then he ran, silently and rapidly, to the front of the -building, where his horse was tethered. - -Fearing the loss of an instant’s time, he resisted a temptation to dash -inside and tell his friends, and a moment later had jumped into the -saddle and was on the move. - -His work required the greatest care. Should he approach too close it -meant danger of being seen; should he lag too far behind the risk of -losing the other’s trail. The route which the cowpuncher had taken led -directly up the hill; so Bob Somers followed. - -The presence of the man in advance was occasionally betrayed by a -crackling in the underbrush, as his horse plunged through. He was -evidently traveling hard. - -The Rambler took the precaution to keep intervening objects between, or -to ride in the shadows now thickly falling about him in the deep woods. -Steadily forging ahead, he only came to a halt when the top of the hill -was reached. - -Overlooking the trees and vegetation which covered the descending -slope, Bob Somers could see a narrow valley, then, beyond, a succession -of rolling ridges. It was a wild, desolate and silent scene, with no -suggestion of either human or animal life in all its vast reaches. - -He realized, however, that if the man kept straight ahead he must soon -emerge into the open valley. So, sheltered behind a mass of scrubby -cedars, he watched and waited. - -“Hello--there he is now!” - -The horseman, abruptly appearing in the field of vision, began to -gallop at top speed over the level stretch; and Bob Somers, eagerly -following his course, saw him heading for a wide break in the hills. - -“He’s in a mighty big hurry,” said Bob, half aloud. “By Jingo, seems -to be getting rather suspicious, too.” - -The man had suddenly reined up; then, swinging around in his saddle, he -looked long and earnestly in every direction. Apparently satisfied, he -whipped up his steed and never slackened pace until the jagged sides of -the pass hid him from view. - -“Gee--one hasty move, and the jig might be up!” reflected the Rambler, -as he rode down the slope. - -When Bob, in his turn, crossed the valley and reached the break in the -hills he surveyed the somber-looking depths and precipitous slopes with -a critical air. - -“Whew! I certainly shouldn’t like to be caught in there on a dark -night,” he murmured. “By George--there he goes again!” - -Scarcely visible against the surroundings, horse and rider were seen -moving across an open space. - -The lad pulled hastily back, not stirring until he judged the other to -be sufficiently far ahead for him to escape the risk of detection. - -The cool, damp air was filled with the odor of rank weeds and grasses. -Occasionally he came across decaying branches and boughs strewn over -the ground; tangled thickets and slabs of rock, too, added to the -difficulties of the way. Pools of water and marshy stretches mirrored -the gray sky above; and numerous insects hovering over their slimy -surfaces attacked the traveler and his horse with unpleasant vigor. - -Naturally, Bob often questioned the wisdom of his course. What would -his companions think? - -“Hang it all, I’ve gone too far now to back out,” he concluded, -shrugging his shoulders. - -At last the gulch began opening out into another valley. - -Before leaving the deep shadows of the hills Bob rose in his stirrups, -to sweep the country with his field-glass. After several minutes of -anxious search the powerful instrument brought into view the horseman -already climbing the side of a hill directly opposite. - -Now and again, riding in and out among the trees, he was lost to view, -and, finally, disappeared. - -“Perhaps I’ve made a pretty mess of it,” soliloquized Bob, with a look -at the darkening sky. “Even if I started back now I couldn’t get very -far before the night would be down on me black as pitch.” - -At a rattling pace the lad pounded across the valley, then up the hill. -On reflecting that the man might have halted somewhere in the vicinity, -he proceeded slowly, never relaxing his vigilance for a moment. - -The timber grew thickly on the slopes; deep, gloomy shadows lay across -his path. The sky between the interlocking branches appeared in weirdly -shaped patches of light. The outlook was not encouraging. - -At the top of the hill Bob could find no point of vantage, as before, -from which to gaze over the surrounding landscape. The timber was too -thick, the inequalities of the ground too great. - -“Still,” he reflected, “I’ll take a chance, and plunge ahead.” - -And when night finally came Bob Somers found himself on the slope of -another wooded hill. He dismounted, picketed and unsaddled his horse, -then sat down on a grassy knoll to think over the situation. His sudden -whim had turned out disastrously. He was miles and miles away from his -companions. In all his travels he had never been in the midst of a more -desolate-looking place; and the trail was utterly lost. - - - - -CHAPTER XX - -THE RANCH-HOUSE - - -“This here is a kind of an old place,” began Hank Styles, as the boys -entered the ranch-house. “We never went in for no fancy fixin’s, like -Walt Allen over to Fool’s Castle. I reckon you might as well come right -up-stairs.” - -He led them to a rough wooden stairway which led up from the main room. - -Hank Styles waited until all had passed, then followed. - -It impressed Larry Burnham as being rather singular that they should be -conducted to the second floor, and suddenly his comfortable feeling of -security vanished. Bob Somers was a pretty bright chap, he reflected, -and his suspicions might be justified. The echoing of their footsteps -sounded through the big ranch-house with dismal, uncanny clearness. He -didn’t like the little ranchman following so close behind, as though -driving them before him. - -“Here we are!” Hank Styles’ rough voice broke in harshly upon his -meditations. “If this here ain’t a nice room I never seen one. Plenty -of stools. A nice bench. We ain’t got no books or other foolish things; -but that there view out the winder can be looked at a long time.” - -Larry Burnham, brushing past the ranchman, noted the massiveness of the -door and its powerful lock. - -“It’s certainly a big room,” said Dave. - -Tom stepped quickly over to the window. - -“I don’t see much to gaze at,” he sniffed. - -“That there is the beauty of it,” remarked Hank Styles, coolly. “You’ve -got to look a long time before you kin see where it comes in.” - -He was now standing with his back against the partly-open door -surveying the crowd with such a curious expression that Larry’s -uneasiness changed like a flash into alarm. The man’s eyes seemed to -suggest a curious mixture of triumph and maliciousness. - -“Sit down, fellows,” commanded the ranchman. “Make yourselves at home.” - -Dave Brandon, usually the first to comply with such invitations, gave -the little man a swift, keen glance. - -“That tired feeling I had has sort of worn off,” he remarked. He -glanced significantly toward Sam Randall. “So I don’t think we’ll stay.” - -The moment these words were spoken Larry Burnham, yielding to his -fears, attempted to pass Hank Styles. - -“You don’t think you’ll stay, eh?” yelled the ranchman savagely. “But I -reckon you will--you confounded lot of spies!” - -As though overpowered with rage he gave the blond lad a mighty push -which sent him staggering back, to bring up violently in the arms of -Sam Randall. - -The room was in an uproar at once. Dave Brandon leaped forward. - -Hank Styles, however, with the agility of a cat, eluded him, and by an -adroit movement of his foot almost sent the stout boy to the floor. -Then, with a yell of derision, he slipped outside the room, and before -the combined rush of angry and excited boys could prevent it had closed -the great door with a bang. Instantly they heard the ominous sound of -the lock being turned. - -“Trapped!” groaned Larry Burnham. “Oh, what easy marks!” - -“I no understand!” cried Thunderbolt. - -“Let us out,” howled Tom, “or you’ll get in the worst trouble of your -life!” - -A tremendous onslaught was made on the door. Every ounce of their -united strength was exerted in an effort to force it open. But the only -result was to make themselves hot, tired and perspiring. - -“Yes; push on it hard!” yelled a derisive voice. “‘Walk inter my -parler,’ says the spider to the fly. Thought yerselves smart, didn’t -yer? Well, all I kin say is that ye’re goin’ ter smart for it.” - -“Come now, this has gone far enough,” shouted Dick Travers. “We don’t -mind a little joke----” - -“A joke, is it?” Hank Styles’ voice, muffled by the partition, came -again. “Thought I couldn’t see through yer little trick, didn’t yer? -Sit there an’ think it over. It’s a nice, comfor’ble room with stools -an’ benches. An’ when you git tired o’ sittin’ look out o’ the winder -at that there beautiful view.” - -Tom Clifton immediately attacked the door with a fury that, if not -emulated by the others, at least caused them to join in another supreme -effort to break the lock. - -Puny indeed was the lads’ force against the mighty strength and -solidity of the great door. Their efforts were as fruitless as those of -a bird fluttering and beating its wings against the bars of its cage. - -“Oh, what a beautiful mess!” cried Larry, despairingly. “Now what are -we going to do?” - -“Not blubber--for one thing!” cried Tom, so exasperated that he could -scarcely speak. “Hank Styles is going to pay for this. I knew there was -something wrong the moment he opened his mouth.” - -“Then why did you want to come in, like a silly idiot?” stormed Larry. - -“Because I thought we could find out something.” - -“Well, we’re found in something.” - -“Oh, but this is much queer!” exclaimed Thunderbolt. - -“Come now, don’t let us get excited,” admonished Dave. “We have an -ally on the outside--a mighty lucky idea of Bob Somers’.” - -“Yes. And he’ll find a way to get us out,” said Sam, confidently. -“Fellows, what kind of a place do you suppose we’ve run into?” - -“The headquarters of a band of smugglers, of course,” cried Tom, with -conviction. “Didn’t you see how strange Hank Styles looked when I spoke -about the man who attacked me?” - -“I certainly did,” answered Dick Travers. - -“Are we going to jaw here all night?” demanded Larry Burnham. “I’m -beginning to know what a chicken in a coop feels like. Let’s open that -window an’ yell for Bob.” - -“Gee! I was never so mad in all my life!” fumed Tom. - -“And you look it,” said Dave, cheerfully. - -Dick Travers, at this moment, was vainly trying to open the window. But -the sash was nailed fast. - -“Score another one for Hank Styles,” he said, calmly. - -“Stand back, fellows,” cautioned Larry Burnham, picking up a stool. “I -know a capital remedy for windows that won’t open.” - -“Hold on, Larry, hold on!” interposed Sam Randall. “What’s the use of -spoiling perfectly good panes of glass? Where’s your confidence in Bob -Somers?” - -“That uncommonly tired feeling I had has returned,” said Dave. “I’m -going to take a rest.” - -Larry placed the stool on the floor and sat down. - -“I wonder why Hank Styles locked us in?” he exclaimed. “What can he -expect to gain by it?” - -A lengthy and earnest discussion followed. Many theories were advanced; -but beyond being absolutely certain that the whole affair was most -extraordinary none could give a plausible explanation. - -“I’ll bet there’s a big bunch around this place,” said Tom. - -“An’ maybe ready to pounce on us the moment we get out,” suggested the -blond lad. “Gee! I only hope nothing’s happened to Bob.” - -“They’d never catch him napping,” said Dick. - -“Oh, I don’t know about that. For all we know, they may have tied him -up an’ tossed him in a corner like a sack of wheat. Look out, fellows! -This time it goes.” - -With all the strength of his powerful arms the big lad hurled the stool. - -The sound of a fearful crash instantly followed. The woodwork was torn -asunder, while showers of glass rattled over the floor, or, falling -outside, were splintered and smashed to bits on the ground. A dull thud -announced the arrival of the stool on the turf. - -“Not a neat job, but effective,” remarked Dave. - -“Would have been quite a pretty sight from down below,” commented Sam. - -A number of heads were immediately poked out through the broken window. - -“Hello, Bob, hello!” yelled Tom. - -The others joined in a rousing chorus. - -When no replies came to repeated calls the lads began to look at each -other with expressions of wonderment. - -“Still,” remarked Tom, with great confidence, “you may be mighty sure -Bob has some good reason for not opening his mouth.” - -“I guess I’ve stated it,” grunted Larry; “an’ it wouldn’t surprise me -a bit if we never saw our horses an’ stuff again.” - -This possibility quite staggered the crowd. - -“Wouldn’t that be a jolly fine ending to your mystery-solving -expedition?” went on Larry relentlessly. - -“‘Words, words, words’!” came from Dave. “Boys, we must get out of -here. Can’t jump--the distance is entirely too great.” - -“Let’s see,” exclaimed Sam. “Our khaki coats are strong and tough. -What’s the matter with tying the sleeves of two together, and----” - -“Good!” broke in Tom. “I’d have thought of that myself in another -moment. Quick! Let’s try it.” - -He and Larry immediately took off their coats and followed Sam’s -suggestion. - -“It ought to be strong enough to hold an elephant,” remarked Dave, -approvingly, as he examined their work. - -Tom seized one of the sleeves, Larry Burnham and Dick gripping the -other. Then, easing himself over the window sill, the tall lad was -lowered steadily toward the grass-bestrewn ground. It was such an easy -operation that he laughed in derision at Hank Styles’ effort to hold -them prisoners. - -The instant his feet touched the ground Tom dashed off at top speed. -A glad cry of relief presently escaped his lips--the horses were -contentedly munching the grass in front of the house. A quick count, -however, showed one to be missing. - -“Ah! No wonder Bob didn’t answer,” he exclaimed. An idea of the true -state of affairs flashed into his mind. “Hooray! I’ll just bet he’s up -to some detective work.” - -Running back he yelled: “There doesn’t seem to be a soul about the old -place, fellows, and I guess Bob is on their trail.” - -Dick Travers was soon standing beside him; then came the young Cree. -And presently all were on solid earth once more. - -“I think the view looks much finer from here than it does up above,” -laughed Tom, joyously. - -“Hank Styles much bad man!” exclaimed Thunderbolt, with emphasis. “If -him ever come over to Cree village again he run away mighty fast. Me -see him there many times.” - -“Half the fun of getting out is spoiled by Bob’s not being here,” -growled Dick. “I guess Tom’s theory is correct. Let’s go inside.” - -He led the way to the front door. - -It proved to be locked. - -“Humph! I believe those fellows have gone away for good!” cried Tom. - -“We must wait here until Bob gets back,” remarked Dave. “So what’s the -matter with making ourselves comfortable? Suppose we try the windows.” - -“But--but--just imagine what might happen if Hank Styles an’ some -others should come back,” began Larry. - -“Ease your mind, son,” interrupted Tom, loftily. “We’re not a bit -afraid.” - -Finding all the ground floor sashes fastened the crowd decided to adopt -heroic measures. A ponderous sawhorse was found in the stable; and, -armed with this, they attacked the door. Before their onslaught it soon -tottered back on creaking hinges. - -“Hooray--hooray!” shouted Tom. And, followed by the others, he dashed -inside. - -“Let’s get something to eat,” suggested Dave. “I’m uncommonly hungry.” - -“That seems to be the best plan,” agreed Sam. “Here’s a big stove and -enough wood to start a fire. Let’s pitch in hard.” - -Several of the boys immediately went out and got the saddle bags. - -But one thing marred their happiness--the absence of Bob Somers. -Without his cheery presence a damper seemed to have come over the group. - -“Him much nice boy,” said the young Cree. “Hope nothing hurt him.” - -“Well, he’s staying away a blamed long time,” said Larry, uneasily. -“Perhaps we ought to go off on a search.” - -“While the grub is cooking I’ll do it,” cried Tom. “Come along?” - -“Me go, too,” said Thunderbolt. - -The three scouts departed at once, and did not return until Dave was -placing the steaming viands on a long pine table which stood in the -middle of the room. - -“No news,” announced Larry, “although we nearly yelled our heads off.” - -“Bad--very bad!” cried Thunderbolt. - -“If I didn’t know Bob Somers so well I’d feel worried,” remarked Dave -Brandon. “But he’s a strong, courageous and resourceful chap. We can -save his share of the meal.” - -In spite of anxiety every one possessed a tremendous appetite. After -their long ride it seemed almost impossible to get enough. - -While the big square window still framed in an expanse of greenish sky -and glowing clouds Tom lighted an oil lamp that hung from the ceiling, -and its dull yellow glow partly chased away the gloom which pervaded -their surroundings. - -As time passed slowly on, bringing no sound of footsteps, and twinkling -stars appeared in the dark and colorless sky, the lads found it -increasingly difficult to keep up the mask of cheerfulness. - -“There’s one thing pretty certain,” remarked Dave: “if Bob has gone -anywhere among those hills there’s not much chance of our seeing him -again to-night.” - -Outside, a fitful wind rustled the grass. From the gently swaying -branches of a tree close by came a musical sighing. Walking to the door -Tom looked out upon a field of darkness so intense that nothing beyond -a few feet could be distinguished. - -“Whew, how black!” he exclaimed. “Let’s get some more lanterns, -fellows.” - -“Going to illuminate the prairie?” inquired Larry. - -“No; but we’ll make the windows shine so brightly that if Bob should -happen to be out in the open he’d see the beacon for miles.” - -The boys hustled around, soon finding three lanterns in a closet. These -were lighted, carried to adjoining rooms and placed on the window sills. - -“Now, for the present, there is nothing to do but wait,” exclaimed Dave. - -After a while Thunderbolt and Tom went outside and led the horses to -the stable, then rejoined the disconsolate-looking Ramblers, who were -either lounging or walking about the big room. The light from the lamp -failed to clear away entirely the gloom which hovered over the corners, -and every movement of the lads sent odd-shaped shadows traveling -fantastically across the floor or walls. - -At last Dave picked up his blanket. - -“I’m going to make a mighty good try to sleep,” he said. - -“You’ll succeed, all right,” grinned Larry. “Who’s standin’ guard?” - -“My turn,” replied Tom. - -The rest of the crowd, weary and worried, concluded to follow the stout -boy’s example. - -“Sleep well,” said the sentinel, with an effort to smile. - -Rifle in hand, he walked outside and began pacing to and fro. - -His watch passed in a very uneventful fashion. Sam Randall relieved -him, and when Sam’s time was up he called Tom. - -“Gee!” muttered the tall Rambler, rubbing his eyes. “I wish the next -two hours would pass as quickly as the last.” - -He took up a position by the window, and, just as watchful as though a -host of enemies surrounded them, kept a keen lookout. - -“I do wonder where Bob is at the present moment,” he thought. “It’s a -mighty queer affair. If he doesn’t turn up pretty soon we’ll have to go -on a hunt for him.” - -Occasionally it required heroic efforts to keep his eyes from closing. -He envied the sleepers, so blissfully unconscious of time or place. Now -he tiptoed softly up and down; then walked to the partly-open door, or -stood by the window trying to penetrate the obscurity beyond. - -He felt relieved to see a change gradually coming over the scene. The -eastern sky became tinged with a cold and grayish light--dawn was -approaching, and ghostly streamers of mist were revealed hanging low -over the prairie and hills. - -“Well, I was certainly never so glad to see it in my life,” exclaimed -Tom, softly. “My, hasn’t the time dragged out, and----” - -He abruptly paused--for, without warning, there happened the most -singular thing which had ever taken place in the history of the Rambler -Club. - - - - -CHAPTER XXI - -LOST - - -Bob Somers, in his camp among the hills, with the black night about -him, tried to accept the situation philosophically. It looked as though -his pursuit had been a dismal failure. And here he was, cut off from -any hope of reaching his friends for hours. - -“If I’d only taken time to tell the fellows I’d feel much better,” he -reflected. - -He had built a fire in a secluded spot and eaten supper. And now -there was nothing to do but think, or gaze at the flashes of light -which often pierced the darkness. The stars were shining with unusual -brilliancy. He tried to remember what he had read about these orbs so -many million miles away, but his thoughts would constantly return to -the boys he had left in the lonely ranch-house and the man who was -possibly encamped somewhere on the same range of hills. - -“I only hope he doesn’t see the light of this fire,” he murmured. - -Long experience in the woods had steeled his nerves to stand without a -tremor the rustlings and whisperings which sometimes even the slightest -breeze occasions. A twig snapping, a broken branch falling earthward, -or some small animal scurrying through the brush sounds in the silence -of the night with unaccountable clearness. - -Bob Somers, sitting on a broad, smooth slab of stone, was often obliged -to fight off swarms of insects attracted by the glow of the fire. An -inquisitive toad hopped up, fixed its beady eyes on him for a moment, -then turned about and solemnly hopped away. - -Often he asked himself if they actually had stumbled upon the -smugglers’ stronghold. At any rate there was clearly something wrong. -He had been forcibly impressed with the idea that the man who had -ridden among the hills was delegated to perform some most important -work. It made his disappointment all the keener. - -“Well, the only way is to make the best of it,” mused Bob. “I’ll join -the ‘Don’t Worry’ Club. Worry certainly never did a chap a bit of -good. When things begin to go wrong be glad they aren’t any worse.” - -Having spoken this bit of philosophy aloud the Rambler rose to his -feet. His pocket search-light cut a brilliant streak over the ground, -and by its aid he was able to find his way across the uneven surface. -From a little distance the firelight dancing and sparkling, its cheery -rays flashing upon the surrounding trees and bushes, made a decidedly -cheerful spot of color in a field of blackness. - -He found walking rather difficult. Bushes rose up before his path; -here and there a treacherous declivity had to be avoided. But still he -pushed on, hoping to catch sight somewhere in the scene before him of -another glowing spot of color which might tell him of the presence in -that vast expanse of the man he had pursued. - -There was none, however. Bob, following his own advice, thrust aside -the feeling of disappointment and began to retrace his steps. - -“I might as well turn in,” he reflected, “and get up with the day. I’ll -make a mighty good try to pick up that fellow’s trail again.” - -Accordingly he rolled himself in his blanket and lay down. Out in the -open air, with the scent of the earth and growing things about him, and -a pleasant breeze sweeping over the hilltop, slumber did not need to -be wooed. The Rambler was soon fast asleep. And it was not until early -morning that his eyes were once more open. - -“Hello!” he exclaimed, jumping to his feet. “Daylight already! And -there’s plenty of work to be done.” - -Only a few charred sticks remained of his fire, but Bob soon had -it going again. A breakfast was hastily cooked and eaten; then, -considerably refreshed, he saddled his horse. - -Cheerless and grim appeared the flattish clouds of mist which hung -between him and the distance. Vegetation dripped with moisture and -reflected the cold gray of the sky above. - -Bob’s first work was to make a careful search of the surroundings, to -see if he could discover any indications of the rider having passed -that way. In this he was not successful. So he at last vaulted on his -horse’s back and started off. - -A rosy glow was now appearing in the eastern sky; and presently streaks -of light began stealing over the ridge of hills, picking out here and -there a resting place. As the sun crept above the horizon and showed -its gorgeous rim over the even gray of a distant elevation Bob Somers -rode down into the still-shadowed valley, examining every foot of the -way with the keenest scrutiny. - -“I’ll use up all morning in the search,” he decided. “I certainly hope -the fellows won’t be worried. Don’t believe any of ’em, though, would -want me to turn back now.” - -Traveling up the slope of another hill he reached the summit just as -the full glow of sunlight shot over the landscape. Somber shadows were -immediately transformed into tints of delicate blue, barren surfaces of -rock on hillsides caught and held the gleams of gold, while the woods -became patches of mellow green. - -There was a delightful sense of freshness in the fragrant air. Bob -Somers felt buoyed up. He reflected that any one who could experience -gloomy feelings on such a morning must be hopelessly out of tune with -nature. - -Descending again, he reached a creek which rippled musically over -a boulder-strewn bed between two high ridges. On the opposite side -traveling was impossible, owing to precipitous slopes. - -“By Jove, I’m getting into a regular wilderness!” exclaimed Bob. - -A few minutes later, on turning a bend, he saw before him a point where -the stream was almost choked with the débris brought down by floods. -Around decaying boughs and branches the water swirled and bubbled, -as if seeking to tear them from their fastenings. A murmur, never -slackening for an instant, filled the narrow gorge with a pleasing -sound. - -Bob Somers rode along a narrow space with the stream some four or five -feet below, while above towered a wall of dull slate-colored rock. -He saw with satisfaction, however, that a short distance beyond a -gentle descent led down to the water’s edge. There numerous pools had -formed, and a marshy stretch partly overgrown with weeds and tall grass -followed the receding base of the hill. - -As he reached it the Rambler uttered an exclamation of surprise. Deeply -imprinted on this tract were impressions of horses’ hoofs. - -“Great Scott!” cried Bob, leaping to the ground. - -All thoughts of returning for the present vanished from his mind. -Here was exactly what he had been looking for so anxiously. A careful -examination, too, convinced him that the tracks were fresh. - -“Well, this is certainly a great piece of luck,” he exclaimed, -joyously. “I haven’t the least doubt in the world that it was Mr. Hank -Styles’ friend who passed this way.” - -Highly encouraged, Bob Somers resumed the trail, and presently made -another interesting discovery. Beside the fresh tracks were many others -clearly much older. A pathway, too, had been beaten through the tall -grass. - -Satisfied that for the present at least there was no danger of his -going off the track, Bob traveled on, putting mile after mile behind -him. Occasionally he urged his horse through dark, somber ravines which -suggested the abode of wild animals, for nature here had contrived to -put on its grimmest aspect. - -At last progress by the side of the stream was no longer possible. The -hills rose steeply from the water’s edge. - -“Blocked from the creek, that’s certain,” mused Bob. - -After taking the precaution to fill his canteen and give the horse a -drink, he surveyed the landscape carefully in all directions. From the -character of the ground he felt sure that the man had been obliged to -follow the stream on the same side, and, on further consideration, -concluded it to be quite possible that he had mounted the hill, either -there or at a point close by. - -“So I’ll climb it myself,” he said, giving the reins a jerk. - -Although the Rambler tried to keep close to the creek so many obstacles -were encountered that the distance between them seemed steadily to -increase. - -“Well, now I’m certainly as badly off as ever,” soliloquized Bob -Somers, ruefully. “If I hadn’t come across those hoof-prints I’d -probably be a long way on the back track by this time. And--by -George--I really do believe I’m getting mixed.” - -He raised himself in his stirrups. Everywhere ridge after ridge rolled -off to meet the sky, all looking monotonously alike. - -“For the life of me I don’t know in which direction Hank Styles’ -ranch-house lies,” he grinned. “It’s a good thing my saddle bags are -full of grub.” - -A spirit of recklessness seized him. - -“Of course,” he argued, “the fellows must know I’m safe; and as I’ve -stayed away so long a few hours more or less can’t matter. Get up, old -boy! I’ll give Larry Burnham a chance to say that this was the wildest -wild goose chase he ever heard of.” - -About an hour later he drew rein at the bottom of a deep ravine. There -could be no question now that his task had utterly failed. The horseman -who had passed through the swampy section might have pursued a course -miles and miles away from his present situation. The Rambler was -reconciled. At least, he had made a faithful effort. His mistake had -been in allowing himself to be led on and on when common sense should -have told him the futility and absurdity of such a course. - -“Oh, yes, I know it’s very dreadful,” grinned Bob. “Still, I guess -Tom’ll stick up for me against the stings and jibes of outrageous -tongues.” He laughed merrily. “Now for a bite of lunch.” - -Realizing the importance of every minute, if he expected to reach the -ranch-house before nightfall, the lad satisfied himself with crackers -and dried beef. Then, consulting his compass, he set off in search of -the creek. - -“And once there it won’t take me long to get my bearings,” he thought, -confidently. - -Up and down hill he rode; but the stream persistently remained out of -sight. - -To Bob Somers’ mind there was humor in the situation--but the humor was -of rather a grim sort. Weeks might be spent in that wild region without -encountering a single human soul. - -“It’s a good thing I’m not a tenderfoot,” he grinned. He stroked his -pony’s neck. “I guess, though, we’ll be able to find our way out of -here before very long, old boy.” - -Bob Somers’ hopeful prediction did not seem likely of fulfilment. He -could find nothing that looked familiar. - -“Lost at last!” he muttered, with a smile. - -His horse was plainly showing evidences of distress. The long, hard -climbs over steep and slippery surfaces, together with the heat of the -day, were exhausting the animal. So Bob presently dismounted. - -“Poor old chap,” he murmured, commiseratively. “You certainly need a -rest.” - -The lad looked over the oval-shaped valley and the line of encircling -hills, then, drawing a long breath, exclaimed: - -“I guess my troubles are only beginning.” - - - - -CHAPTER XXII - -A CRY FOR HELP - - -Too considerate of his pony to push the animal hard, Bob now made but -slow progress. His canteens were empty and his throat already becoming -parched. The horse, too, needed water. This, then, began to be a more -important consideration than a steady march toward the ranch-house. - -From the top of a high hill he finally saw through his field-glass a -line of scrubby willows crossing a valley. Their presence suggested a -watercourse. - -“By Jingo, I believe it’s the creek!” he cried, hopefully. “Hooray!” - -After a long, arduous descent he reached the trees, finding that a -narrow creek coursed its way between their overhanging branches toward -a wide gash in the hills beyond. - -“Ah, this is a fine sight!” exclaimed the Rambler, enthusiastically. - -Rarely had clear, sparkling water held such a delightful appeal. The -very air seemed filled with its fresh, pleasant odor. The pony neighed -and tugged hard to pull away from his restraining hands. - -“No, no, old chap,” whispered Bob. “You must rest a bit and cool off -first.” - -How delightful it was to wash his face and hands in the stream and -drink the cool, refreshing liquid! And then, having satisfied nature’s -cravings, he began to figure out his position. - -“Yes, sir, I believe this is the very creek,” he decided, at length, -“but miles beyond the place where the gorge pushed me aside.” He -glanced at the sun. His brow clouded over. “I’ll never make it -to-night,” he exclaimed, with finality. “So what’s the use of -exhausting this pony any more? No, sir--I won’t do it.” - -Some distance further along, near the base of the hill, he discovered -an inviting little depression, and in the middle of this built a -fire. Then, while the coffee-pot simmered on a bed of red-hot coals -and frying bacon sent off a pleasant aroma, he reflected on the many -mysterious things which had happened, and on the ill-luck which had -attended all their efforts to solve them. - -“It begins to look as though Larry Burnham was right,” he murmured. -“Still, somehow, I don’t regret having taken this chance.” - -He strolled up and down for a while; then followed the creek quite a -distance as it wound its way among the hills. - -“I have a pretty good idea how Robinson Crusoe must have felt in his -solitude,” he grinned, as he turned and began to walk back toward the -fire. - -Finding inactivity trying to his patience, Bob Somers kept busy while -the end of the day approached. Even then time seemed to pass with -extraordinary slowness. He heartily welcomed dusk; and as the shadows -of night stole over the hills and crept into the valleys, gradually -wrapping the landscape in impenetrable gloom, he decided to seek repose. - -“And I’ll hit the trail back on the very first signs of day,” he -concluded. - -Being a good sleeper, and nothing occurring to disturb him, morning -found Bob Somers fresh, and eager to conquer the difficulties of -travel which he knew lay between him and the ranch-house. - -His breakfast was cooked and eaten in short order. When the pony, in -response to the crack of his quirt, leaped ahead, Bob felt like giving -a shout of exultation. - -“Mighty certain, after this, the crowd will stick together,” he said, -aloud. “By Jingo, I suppose the fellows must be pretty badly worried.” - -He found the passage between the hills comparatively easy, so made -rather rapid progress. - -Always an alert and careful observer, he noticed, when the hills began -to fall away, a beaten trail. - -“By George!” he exclaimed, in some excitement. “I do wonder if this can -have any connection with the other? It seems very likely,” he argued. -“If I hadn’t lost the trail among the hills it would probably have led -me to this very place.” - -His eyes followed the track, which, approaching from the distance, left -the creek rather abruptly and cut across the wide undulating valley. -He was in the grip of all his old feelings like a flash. An intense -curiosity to know where the trail led, if nothing more, stole over him. -The thought of possible discoveries kindled his imagination. A strong -allurement tempted him once more to brave Dame Fortune. - -“Why not?” he asked himself. - -Indecision lasted but an instant. The day was young; the broad expanse -seemed to beckon him on. He drew a long breath. - -“Yes, I’ll do it!” he exclaimed, determinedly. “Get up, old chap!” - -The horse broke into a gallop. No great amount of care was necessary -to keep the trail in view, though in places it was either faint or -entirely obliterated. - -“I only hope things don’t turn out as they did before,” he exclaimed. - -The opposite hills rose higher, ever cutting more sharply against the -sky. His pony, in a spirited mood, needed no urging. He swung over a -gently-swelling rise, then galloped swiftly down on the other side. - -The trail was still before him. But instead of climbing the hill, as he -had expected, it skirted along the base. - -Bob Somers was about to ride on when he observed a lesser track leading -around the slope in the opposite direction. He instantly halted. - -“Shouldn’t wonder a bit if it goes to some cabin or house,” he said to -himself. “Perhaps it would pay to investigate.” - -He wheeled sharply about, then rode slowly along, examining every foot -of the way with the keenest attention. In several places the earth was -considerably cut up by horses’ hoofs, some of the imprints having a -fresh appearance. - -“Good--good!” cried Bob. - -The trail presently led over a slope, through a patch of woods, and -kept luring him on until he soon found himself deep among the hills -again. On a rocky stretch all traces vanished, but a careful search -revealed it further along. - -At last, turning into a dark and narrow gorge, the Rambler suddenly -reined up with an exclamation. - -Between leafy openings in the trees his keen eyes had caught sight of -a log cabin. Yes, there was a cabin--somebody’s home. Triumphantly he -gazed upon it. - -“I’ve found something, anyway,” he whispered softly. “But what a -curious idea to build in such an out-of-the-way place! I wonder if----” - -He paused. Suppose the occupants of the cabin should prove to be some -of the rough and dangerous characters Teddy Banes had spoken about? - -“Guess I’d better go a bit slow on this,” he reflected, picketing his -horse behind a clump of bushes. - -Presently he stole ahead almost as silently as an Indian. - -A few moments later he paused behind a thick bush, with the structure -right before him. He studied it earnestly. There were no sounds of -life, although the cabin did not bear the appearance of a place -deserted. True enough, the door was closed, one window boarded up, the -sash of another down; but there seemed to be plenty of evidences of the -recent presence of human beings. - -“I suppose they’ve just gone away for a while,” mused Bob. - -He waited for several minutes; then, straightening up, walked boldly -across the gulch. - -“I know it’s scarcely worth while to knock,” he thought, “but here -goes--just for fun.” - -The butt of his quirt came against the heavy door with force enough to -send a series of sharp echoes throughout the narrow confines. - -The Rambler laughed softly. - -“That certainly made an awful racket,” he began. - -Then, as though an electric shock had passed through him, the -expression on his face changed to one of amazement. - -The sound of a voice had come from within--and of a voice raised, as -though in a cry for help. - - - - -CHAPTER XXIII - -BILLY ASHE IS DISAPPOINTED - - -Tom Clifton, the sentinel, gazing abstractedly out of the window, -suddenly saw a number of horsemen, like shadowy phantoms, ride from -behind a spur of the hill, and, with ominous silence, bear down upon -the house. - -This sight so astounded the tall boy that for an instant he stood stock -still. But, with a strong effort, recovering mastery over his tingling -nerves, he yelled a warning. - -“Great Cæsar! Wake up, fellows, wake up!” - -His ringing alarm had not ceased to echo when sharp gleams of fire -caught his eye and he heard the rapid crack, crack of pistol shots, -together with a succession of shouts. - -By this time the boys were springing to their feet, as wide awake as -they had ever been in their lives, every one hurling eager, anxious -inquiries toward the Rambler. - -“Keep under cover!” screamed Larry. “You chaps wouldn’t take any -warning. Now see what’s come of it!” - -Crack--crack--crack! The fusillade of shots rang out again. They could -hear the sound of many voices. Thoroughly alarmed, all sprang for -points of safety, as far away from the range of bullets as possible. - -Every instant they expected to hear the ping, ping of flying lead. - -This ominous sound, however, failed to reach their ears. - -But something else did. - -“We call upon you to surrender!” shouted a powerful voice. “The house -is surrounded. There are no possible means of escape!” - -“Oh--oh!” wailed Larry. “What is going to happen?” - -“Come out one by one and throw up your arms!” again thundered the -voice. “Be lively, now, or we’ll fire on the house!” - -At this awe-inspiring command the boys stood motionless, as though -their muscles refused to perform their usual functions. They realized -instantly that no time would be given them to choose any plan of -action. The voice of the speaker indicated a deadly earnestness not to -be trifled with. - -Who among them would be the first to go out in the gray, cheerless dawn -to face this mysterious body of horsemen who had them completely at -their mercy? - -For a few seconds the silence was dense--painful. Each waited for the -others to speak. - -“Are you coming, or shall we fire?” roared the man outside. “Surrender, -in the name of the law!” - -“Ah ha!” cried Dave, suddenly. “What does that mean? In the name of the -law--the name of the law!” - -“I--I--be-be-lieve it’s only some kind of a trick!” cried Larry, with -vibrating voice. - -“For the third and last time: are you going to come out?” - -“I’ll go,” said Dave. - -“You’ll do nothing of the sort!” exclaimed Tom, heroically. - -He brushed hastily past the stout boy, and, with a fast-beating heart, -swung open the big front door and stepped outside. - -“Up with your hands!” came a ringing order. “Do you surrender?” - -[Illustration: HE LOOKED UP AT THE MAN] - -For the first time gaining an unobstructed view, Tom Clifton uttered -a gasp of astonishment. A half dozen red-coated figures stationed at -different points were covering him with revolvers. - -“Great Scott--the--the Mounted Police!” he cried. - -The feeling of relief was so great that he almost felt like bursting -into a laugh. - -“Do we surrender? Why, certainly--anything to oblige.” - -A distinct cry of amazement from the foremost rider was immediately -heard. A touch of the quirt sent his horse leaping toward the Rambler, -whose arms dropped to his side. - -An explosive exclamation came from the officer, so loud, so full of -pent-up wrath as to cause Tom Clifton to step hastily back. - -He looked up at the man. - -“You!--You again!” cried a furious voice. - -“Billy Ashe!” fell from Tom’s lips in tones of amazement. - -The two faced each other. There was a moment of tense--dramatic silence. - -The young trooper of the Northwest Mounted was apparently too -dumfounded to follow up his speech. The other horsemen galloped up, -while the crowd rushed pell-mell from the ranch-house. - -“I can hardly believe it!” came in Witmar’s voice. He turned toward the -other men. “These are the very chaps we told you about.” - -“Ah! Good-morning, Mr. Ashe!” remarked Sam Randall, pleasantly. “This, -indeed, is a joyous surprise!” - -The trooper found his voice. - -“I never heard of such confounded luck in all my life!” he yelled. “Are -there any men in that house? Quick--tell me!” - -“Not a single one,” answered Tom. “We scared Hank Styles away.” - -“We might have known it!” exclaimed Ashe, violently. “This is the -second time you’ve bungled things and allowed the men to escape us.” - -“Aye, aye!” said Witmar. “We’ll never get ’em as long as these chaps -remain in Canada.” And, to Billy Ashe’s intense anger and disgust, he -burst into an uncontrollable fit of laughter. Several of the others -joined in. - -This wave of mirth immediately communicated itself to the lads. - -Billy Ashe’s disappointment, however, was too great to permit him to -see any humor in the situation. An all-night’s vigil, which every one -had confidently predicted would be the means of their rounding up the -entire band, had only resulted in bringing them once more face to face -with this crowd of boys from the States. It was too exasperating to -overlook. - -“You fellows are under arrest!” he exclaimed, harshly. “Step right back -into that house!” - -“Must we hold up our hands?” asked Tom. - -“No back talk now. You have interfered with officers of His Majesty’s -service. That’s no joking matter.” - -“Don’t try to resist, boys,” exclaimed Witmar, grinning broadly, “or -we’ll cover you again.” - -“Fellow prisoners,” cried Dick, “let us invite our captors to -breakfast.” - -“I am sorry we should have been the means of putting you to so much -trouble,” said Dave Brandon. “I hope next time things will turn out -better.” - -“They never will,” growled Ashe. “Every time I expect to make an -important capture I’ll find one of you chaps bobbing up to say: ‘Why, -hello, here’s Billy Ashe again!’” - -The policemen picketed their horses, then followed the crowd inside. - -It didn’t look very much like captors and captured. A big breakfast was -cooked; and gradually the awful frown which rested on Trooper Ashe’s -face departed. He listened to all they had to say, and actually smiled -when he learned the trick Hank Styles had played upon them. - -“And you haven’t seen your friend since?” he asked. - -“No,” responded Tom. “And we’re a bit worried about him, too.” - -“Don’t let that bother you in the least,” said Ashe. “He’s probably -arranging things so that whatever little chance we might have had to -nab ’em is gone.” - -The roars of laughter which followed this remark were hearty and -spontaneous. - -“Now, fellows,” went on Ashe, turning to the other policemen, “you’d -better scour the country.” Then he added, addressing Tom: “No, I’m not -going to tell you how Hank Styles and his men came to be suspected--or -when. If Sergeant Erskine chooses to do so, all right.” - -“Are we still under arrest?” laughed Sam. - -“Technically--yes,” returned Ashe. “I want your word of honor that all -will report to the sergeant within a week’s time.” - -“You have it,” said Dave, calmly. “I suppose we shall run across Bob -Somers before then.” - -At this remark the boys’ thoughts were turned into another channel. -Their apprehensions returned. Tom walked over to the window and poked -his head outside, to see that the long streamers of whitish mist were -being gradually driven away by the rays of the rising sun. But in -whatever direction he looked empty stretches alone met his eye. - -The troopers, accompanied by the boys, were soon outside searching for -clues. In this the young Cree was of material assistance. Near the base -of the hill, on a stretch of bare earth, he pointed out the imprints of -a horse’s hoofs so sharp and clear as to indicate a rapid pace. A bit -further along a small bush was partly flattened. - -“Tracks fresh,” said Thunderbolt. “Him go up hill.” - -“Two of you had better ride in that direction, while the others scout -about over the prairie,” said Ashe to his men. - -On returning to the ranch-house the trooper, aided by Witmar, made a -thorough search for contraband goods. None, however, were found. - -“A slick lot!” exclaimed the former. “I reckon, though, they’ll never -pull off any more of their tricks around these parts. Now, fellows, we -must be off.” - -“Where to?” asked Sam. - -“We’ll stop at Jerry Duncan’s, on our way to the post of police at the -settlement.” - -The lads accompanied the policemen outside, and watched them mount and -ride away. - -As soon as their forms were lost to view behind a rise in the rolling -prairie plans were made for the day. It was decided to divide up into -searching parties; some to explore the hills, others to ride off into -the open country. - -And although they continued their task until nightfall not the -slightest sign of the missing Rambler could be found. - -Supper was eaten in dismal silence. Sunset, twilight and night came on. -Lanterns were lighted and again placed in the windows. Monotony and -anxiety literally drove the lads to their blankets. But none of them -slept well. And in their waking moments the all-absorbing topic was -continually discussed. - -Morning rolled around. They jumped up unrefreshed, had a cold -breakfast, and, following this, horses were saddled. It was impossible -to banish from their minds the fear that something might be amiss with -Bob. - -No longer could the suspense be borne. - -Seizing eagerly upon a suggestion made by Dave, Tom wrote a note and -placed it on the table. - -“Yes, sir--Jerry Duncan’s for us!” he cried. “Gee, fellows! Bob may -have gone off in that direction and stopped in to see the ranchman.” - -It was a very faint hope, but better than none. - -Following directions given by Ashe, the lads started off, pushing -their horses hard. And never had their eyes seen a more welcome sight -than when Jerry Duncan’s ranch-house, in its secluded situation among -the hills, appeared in view. - -As the big dog’s loud barking announced their presence the smiling and -genial owner stepped hastily out of the door and almost rushed toward -them. - -“Welcome, boys!” he exclaimed, in his most hearty tone. “Welcome!” -His eyes ran quickly over the group. A shadow seemed to cross his -face. “Ashe and Witmar were here yesterday, and told me Bob Somers was -missing. It isn’t possible----” - -“Then you haven’t seen or heard anything of him?” asked Tom, with -painful apprehension. - -“Indeed I only wish I had.” - -This answer, although half expected, filled the hearts of the boys with -a sinking feeling. They looked at one another in silence. - - - - -CHAPTER XXIV - -THE PRISONER - - -At first Bob Somers, standing by the door of the lonely cabin, almost -thought his senses were playing him a trick. But a second shout caused -his heart to quicken. - -Though the thick walls muffled the sound, the words, “Help--help!” were -clearly distinguishable. - -“By all that’s wonderful, what have I come across?” he gasped. “What -can it mean--some one imprisoned?” - -He gave an answering hail, then attacked the door with all the strength -of his sturdy muscles. - -“Help--help!” - -This appeal coming once more made Bob Somers work with redoubled vigor. -All his efforts went for naught. As though built to resist attack, the -panels scarcely jarred beneath his most furious onslaught. - -With his pulse quickened by excitement, the Rambler, even in those busy -moments, asked himself over and over again what this new mystery could -mean. He was thankful indeed that good fortune had led him into this -narrow gulch to aid some one in distress. - -“I’ll have to break in,” he decided. - -Taking a short-handled axe from his belt he sent blows crashing -one after another around the lock. Chips of wood flew about him. -Crash--smack--bang! The sound of rending wood and the sharp snap of -splintering panels told him that his work would soon be over. - -Scarcely taking an instant to regain his breath, he struck harder and -harder, until at last the lock was shattered, and the door, with a -convulsive movement, staggered back. - -But where was the man he had expected to see? - -For a second Bob Somers’ eyes, blinded by the brilliant light of -out-of-doors, could discern but little in the darkened interior. Then -the obscurity appeared to melt away, and in place of the shadows he saw -a mellow glow, through which the furnishings revealed themselves in -blurred patches of darks and softened lights. - -A glance showed him that the interior was divided into two rooms. It -was from the other, then, that the shouts had come. Another sturdy door -lay between him and the prisoner. - -The man shouted again. - -“I’ll get you out of there in a moment,” yelled Bob. - -Attacking the second door, he finally burst it open; and as the man -stepped from the black and forbidding enclosure Bob Somers regarded him -in speechless astonishment. - -For a few seconds the two stood gazing fixedly into each other’s faces. -Then the boy, with a mighty effort, partly recovered his composure. - -“Hello, Jed Warren!” he exclaimed, extending his hand. “I guess you -haven’t forgotten the Rambler Club.” - -The eyes of Jed Warren, former cowpuncher, later a member of the Royal -Northwest Mounted Police, were staring at him; his mouth was open. The -situation seemed unreal--impossible. Here was a boy whom he had last -seen on Circle T Ranch in Wyoming; and now to have him appear before -his vision in such an amazing manner staggered his comprehension. - -“Bob--Bob Somers!” he gasped. “Bob!” He seized the Rambler’s hand and -wrung it with powerful force. “I don’t--I can’t understand! Bob, is -this really you?” - -A revulsion of feeling came to Bob Somers. He felt like dancing and -shouting for joy. Instead of a disheartening failure, his haphazard -trip had brought him the most wonderful success. Right before him stood -his friend, Jed Warren, for whom every man on the mounted force had -been on the lookout. And it had fallen to his lot not only to discover -his whereabouts, but to release him from imprisonment. - -Yet, with the evidence before his eyes, Bob Somers could scarcely -realize it. And if he was excited and astounded at the outcome Jed -Warren continued to be even more so. The policeman passed his hand -across his forehead as though in a daze. He stared hard at the lad and -shook his head. - -“This has sure put my brain in a whirl, Bob Somers,” he exclaimed. -“I’ve got to get some air mighty fast. Come--see if it seems any more -real outside.” - -The two were presently pacing up and down in the bright sunlight. -It didn’t seem any more real, either. Their ready flow of words was -checked. - -“What will the fellows think?” the Rambler kept repeating to himself. -“Won’t they give a yell when Jed Warren and I march right up before -them!” - -“No, I sure can’t get over it, Bob,” Jed Warren exclaimed at length. “I -guess I’ll wake up in another minute an’ discover it ain’t nothin’ but -a dream.” - -Movement--and quick movement--was the only thing which seemed to be -able to calm excited nerves and fast-beating hearts. - -For some time all Bob Somers could get out of Jed was the fact that he -had been captured and imprisoned by smugglers, and for weeks had not -breathed the pure air of out-of-doors. - -“I can’t make it seem real to me, Bob,” Jed kept repeating blankly. “I -can’t, for a fact.” - -Reviewing the situation again Bob Somers pictured the astonishment -of Sergeant Erskine. He thought of Billy Ashe; of Teddy Banes. And -although his sensibilities had never been wounded by the remarks of -either he could not repress a feeling of triumph. - -They continued pacing to and fro in the yellow glare which filled the -narrow gulch until the emotions of each began to slowly subside. Then, -feeling that a good meal was far more important than explanations, Bob -Somers set to work. - -“There’s plenty o’ grub inside that thar room,” explained the former -cowpuncher. “They shoved ’nuff in to keep me goin’ for a spell.” - -Bob dashed toward the cabin, returning in a few moments, his arms -burdened with provisions. He had never felt more joyous in his life. - -A meal was quickly prepared. And perhaps neither the former prisoner -nor his rescuer ever enjoyed one more. They lingered over it a long -time, too, often looking at each other in silence, as though it was -almost impossible for them to realize their good fortune. - -At length Jed began to recount his experiences. - -“It ain’t such a long story, Bob,” he explained. “You haven’t told me -much about yourselves yet; but you’ve mentioned seein’ that thar Hank -Styles.” The trooper scowled angrily. “Every time I think of him an’ -his crowd my dander rises to the b’ilin’ point.” - -“I don’t blame you,” said the Rambler. - -“A little while back, when cattle rustlers an’ smugglers had started -things goin’ at a lively rate, Sergeant Erskine gave me a ‘special’ on -the job. I tell you, Bob, I wanted to make my mark on the force; an’ I -thought it would be the means of givin’ me the first big boost.” - -“Well, I can just bet you did all you could,” cried Bob. - -“You’re sartinly right. I worked day an’ night. Sometimes I thought I -had track of ’em. But nothin’ seemed to pan out; an’ I began to get -sick o’ the job.” - -“Remember saying something like that to one of the border patrols?” - -“Sure thing. Why?” - -“He got an idea you were tired of the force.” - -Jed Warren shook his head emphatically. - -“Then he didn’t get it straight, Bob. I can see you’ve got some -interesting things to tell me, so I’ll make short work o’ this here -tale of mine.” - -“I have,” laughed Bob. - -“Of course I knew a lot of ranchmen an’ cowpunchers. Some of ’em used -to hang around the Cree village; an’ I kind of thought that a feller -named Hank Styles an’ some of his men seemed to be takin’ things purty -easy.” - -“So he was the ringleader, eh?” inquired Bob. - -“He sartinly were. Honest, Bob, I hate to admit it, but I never -suspicioned him. He seemed always so friendly, an’ sayin’ a smart young -chap like me was bound to git ahead; an’, somehow, that kind o’ dope -got me, Bob.” - -Jed Warren paused. His eyes flashed as he began again: - -“Several times, in passin’ that way, I stopped in to have a friendly -chat with Styles. He treated me fine. Nothin’, he said, was too good -for a trooper of the Northwest Mounted. I fell for that, too, Bob.” -Warren’s tone became sorrowful. - -“What a sly old duffer!” exclaimed Bob. - -“Yes! An’ all the time I was askin’ myself why them thar fellers didn’t -fix up the ranch-house, an’ make it a comfortable place to live in. I -talked to Hank about it, an’ he laughed. ‘We’re out here for the dough, -Warren,’ he says; ‘it ain’t worth while to take the time an’ trouble.’ -Even that didn’t open me eyes.” - -“Oh, you can’t blame yourself,” said Bob, consolingly. - -“I’m not so sure. I wouldn’t say it to everybody, Bob, but I kind o’ -think their smooth, oily ways was what made me miss connections. It’s a -bitter story, an’ it makes me feel mighty bitter to tell it.” - -Bob nodded sympathetically. - -“I were a-ridin’ about the prairie one black night when I happened to -think that Hank Styles’ place was purty near. ‘Wal,’ says I, ‘it’s me -for a canter over to the big front door.’” - -“Ah!” cried Bob. “Now we’re coming to the climax.” - -“Hank an’ a couple o’ his cowpunchers were there, an’, as usual, -treated me jist as nice as pie. Though it did strike me they looked -kind o’ odd. They kept sayin’: ‘Well, Jed, I guess you’ll be off in a -few minutes, eh?’ ‘Nary,’ says I; ‘right here seems too good.’” - -“What happened?” asked Bob, breathlessly. - -“About an hour arterward I thought it were time to skip. So I mounted -me nag an’ started to ride around the house. ‘Why, which way are you -goin’, Jed?’ hollers one. ‘In the opposite direction from which I -come,’ says I, laughin’. Hank Styles laughed, too. Wal, Bob, in a -jokin’ sort o’ way, they tried to steer me off in another course. But, -jist the same, I rides toward the rear, an’ almost bumps into a big -wagon.” - -“Ah ha!” exclaimed Bob. - -“‘Hello!’ says I. ‘What’s this?’ ‘Only a chuck wagon full o’ grub for -men on the range,’ replies a feller, in a queer kind o’ tone. All of -a sudden, Bob, I got mighty suspicious, an’ managed to put my hand -inside. It landed kerplunk on the knee o’ some one a-sittin’ there.” - -“Great Scott!” cried Bob. - -“Thinks I, there’s sure somethin’ wrong.” Warren smiled grimly. “An’ -the trouble was, they knew I’d investigate pretty fast. In about two -seconds I felt cold steel pressed against me side. ‘You’ll come right -in the house, Warren,’ says Hank. ‘Don’t make no fuss.’ Yes--they had -me. I went in.” - -“Gee, what an extraordinary tale!” cried Bob. - -Warren quickly told of his later experiences. Without delay he was -escorted under heavy guard to the cabin in the gulch and confined in -the inner room. Hank Styles and his men, although furiously angry, -treated him with consideration, and explained that when all their goods -were disposed of they would leave the country and notify the police of -his whereabouts. - -“But it took them a mighty long time to finish up, didn’t it?” -exclaimed the Rambler. - -“Wal, they probably had a great lot of stuff,” said Jed. “An’ mebbe -they had to go a bit slow, too. I wouldn’t wonder if Styles an’ his men -knew a lot about the cattle stealin’, besides.” - -“Did they leave a guard here?” asked Bob. - -“Sure thing.” - -A sudden idea had flashed into Bob Somers’ mind. Perhaps the object of -the men in drawing lots was to determine which of the three should ride -over to the gulch and notify the sentinel to make his escape. - -“Did you hear anything unusual last night, Jed?” he asked. - -“Yes, siree!” responded the policeman. “A feller rode up; an’ though it -wasn’t so easy to hear inside those thick walls, I could tell from the -excited way he an’ the guard began to chin that somethin’ was up.” - -“Go on!” cried the highly gratified Bob Somers. - -“I pressed me ear to the door, an’ by listenin’ hard, managed to catch -a lot. ‘I tell you the same bunch has jist rid’ up to the house,’ says -one. ‘They know all about us; an’ ye kin be sure the perlice ain’t fur -behind ’em.’” - -Bob laughed gleefully. - -“What happened then?” he demanded. - -“Purty soon one of ’em yells: ‘So-long, Warren. We’re goin’ to skip. -Don’t be skeered. Ye’ll git out soon.’ But say, Bob, what do you know -about it?” - -The lad immediately explained. - -Jed opened his eyes wide with astonishment. - -“So yours was the crowd, eh?” he cried. “Wal, wal! I wonder if I’ll -ever git over this, Bob. But fire away. I want to hear the rest o’ your -story.” - -Warren followed every word with the utmost eagerness. A flash in his -eye and a tightening of the lips indicated his feelings when he heard -about the attack on Tom Clifton. - -“From your description, I think I know the chap, Bob,” he exclaimed. -“I can’t understand those yells and pistol shots you tell me about, -though.” - -“We may find out yet,” grinned the lad. - -“I’m proud o’ you, Bob,” declared the policeman, emphatically, when all -was told, “I sartinly am. You’ve done some wonderfully slick work, but -this is about the slickest yet.” - -Then, to the Rambler’s embarrassment, he abruptly started on a new tack. - -“Bob,” he demanded, “was my horse ever found?” - -“Yes, Jed,” answered Bob. - -“Where?” - -“On the other side of the international boundary line.” - -Warren shook his fist savagely in the air. - -“I think I see through their game!” he cried, springing to his feet. -“Now see here”--he planted himself squarely before the lad--“did -Sergeant Erskine think--think I was--I was”--he seemed to utter the -words with difficulty--“a deserter?” - -“Yes,” answered Bob, frankly. “But we stood up for you as solidly as a -stone wall, Jed.” - -The policeman had been able to bear his capture and imprisonment with -fortitude; he had accepted it as one of those incidents liable to -happen to one in his position. But the thought of having the stigma of -“deserter” attached to his name made his blood fairly boil. - -“Come on, Bob,” he exclaimed. “I can’t lose another instant. I reckon -your horse can carry double. We’ll hit the trail for Jerry Duncan’s.” - -“Jerry Duncan’s?” queried Bob, in surprise. “Why not Hank Styles’, -where I left the crowd?” - -“Because Duncan’s is nearer. Besides, a good trail leads there. And -from his ranch-house you can skirt around the hills and reach Hank -Styles’ without any trouble.” - -Dashing back into the cabin Jed Warren reappeared a moment later with -his scarlet coat--the coat he had worn so proudly. - -“Where’s your horse, Bob?” he demanded, hurriedly. “I reckon you know -how I feel about this thing. Nobody before ever said that Jed Warren -weren’t on the square.” - -“And I don’t believe anybody ever will again,” said Bob, emphatically. -“If those chaps had known you half as well as we do, Jed, they never -could have believed it possible.” - -The athletic young policeman drew himself up to his full height, and -there was a huskiness in his voice as he exclaimed: - -“Bob, when you an’ your crowd are friends to a feller you’re real -friends. Shake!” - -Bob wrung his hand warmly. Then, closing the door of the cabin, the two -started briskly off in the direction of the horse. - -Every step of the way Bob was picturing in his mind the astonishment, -the joy, their arrival was bound to create. He thought how the anxious -watchers would be repaid for all their worry. - -The horse was in good condition to continue the journey. Bob Somers -quickly mounted; then Jed sprang up behind him, and in this fashion -they started off to carry the news of a most sensational event to the -Canadian authorities. - -Jed Warren, being thoroughly familiar with the topography of the -country, directed their course. Bob Somers soon found himself riding -along the trail by the base of the hill. There were still many ridges -to be crossed, so the sturdy little nag was not pushed too hard. - -It was very trying on Jed Warren’s patience, though under the influence -of Bob Somers’ cheery remarks the stern lines on his face gradually -relaxed, to be replaced at length by a grin. - -“I sure think it’s a rich joke on me, Bob,” he exclaimed. “How Hank -Styles an’ his men must have laughed when everybody fell for that -little trick o’ theirs.” - -Up and down hill they jogged, across broad or narrow valleys, with a -soft breeze blowing in their faces and white clouds floating in the -field of blue above. - -The journey seemed very long to both, but, like all journeys, finally -approached an end. Reaching the crest of a hill they looked down, to -see Jerry Duncan’s substantial ranch-house about a quarter of a mile -beyond at the base of the slope. - -“Hooray!” shouted Bob. - -And now he sent his pony pounding along faster and faster until -they were traveling at a pace which might have been trying to less -experienced riders. - -“That’s right, Bob; whoop ’er up!” cried Jed. - -He gave a long, rousing yell, which produced a most extraordinary -result. - -A crowd came rushing out on the porch and down the steps of the house. -And every one among them eyed the approaching horse and its double -burden with apparently the greatest astonishment. - -And Bob Somers was astonished, too; for, as the nag galloped across -the last stretch, he recognized his friends--the friends whom he had -thought were miles away. - -And there was Jerry Duncan, his round, smiling face wearing a ludicrous -expression of amazement. - -“Hello--hello!” yelled Bob. He tried to control the ring of triumph in -his voice--to still the excitement which gripped him. - -They swung up amidst the group and sprang to the ground. Then, for the -first time, the boys seemed to find their tongues. But it was not until -Larry Burnham caught the name “Jed Warren” passing from lip to lip that -he understood what the riotous, uproarious demonstration was all about. - - - - -CHAPTER XXV - -EVERYBODY HAPPY - - -Yes, it was a riotous and uproarious demonstration. And the noise which -echoed and reëchoed between the hills was probably the greatest those -narrow confines had ever heard. - -The boys slapped Jed Warren on the back and wrung his hand, until the -policeman, in sheer self-defense, was obliged to back up against the -porch and hold them at bay. - -“Enough, fellows, enough!” he gasped. - -“What did I tell you, Larry Burnham?” howled Tom, above the uproar. -“Wasn’t I just sure we could do it? Hurrah for Jed Warren! Hurrah for -everybody!” - -“Order, order!” shouted the genial Mr. Duncan, red-faced and happy. -“Order, I say, boys! Let’s get at the bottom of this thing before I -succumb from excitement.” - -And now, unable to reach Jed Warren, the lads were repeating their -manifestations of enthusiasm on Bob Somers, until he, too, sought -relief by the side of the grinning policeman. - -It was only after exhausted nature came to aid the calmer members of -the group that the hubbub began to cease. - -“I sure knew you fellers was a lively lot,” cried Jed Warren, “but it -strikes me you’ve got more ginger than ever.” - -Then began a fusillade of questions. No one heard Jerry Duncan’s -invitation to come in the house; no one paid the slightest attention to -anybody but Jed Warren and Bob Somers. Tom, triumphant, could scarcely -refrain from shouting. What a superb surprise they had in store for -Billy Ashe and Teddy Banes. Perhaps they, and all the rest who had had -the temerity to reflect on the ability of the Rambler Club, would now -reverse their opinions. - -Yes, it was a glorious occasion, and Larry Burnham enjoyed it as much -as any one; for, he reflected, it was his running away and leading -the others into the territory where the smugglers worked that had -indirectly brought about such a happy result. - -It was a long, long time before every one was satisfied. Not a single -question seemed to remain unasked; nor could another response add to -the information already gained. Bob Somers was the hero; every one had -known it before--but now they were doubly certain. They absolutely -refused to listen to the Rambler’s contention that good fortune had -played the star rôle. - -“Get out!” scoffed Tom. “It was brains--brains--and nothing else. Were -we worried? Oh, a trifle. But of course the crowd knew you were all -right every minute of the time.” - -And at this point Mr. Jerry Duncan managed to make his presence felt. - -“You simply have to come inside now,” he exclaimed. “The smugglers -haven’t anything on me, Jed. I’m going to take you prisoner. Inside -with him, boys! The Mounted Police have no terrors for us.” - -Instantly the ranchman’s hand fell on Jed Warren’s shoulder, and, ably -assisted by his courageous band, he hustled this particular member -of the Royal Northwest Mounted Police unceremoniously into the big -dining-room of the ranch-house. - -“The sentence for your ‘desertion’ is: that you shall be allowed -freedom after eating one of the best meals ever prepared in this place.” - -“And we will ably assist!” cried Dave. “These little incidents that -are always occurring to the Rambler Club do give me an uncommonly good -appetite.” - -“Shortly, you shall be sentenced to make a speech,” cried Mr. Duncan. - -“I’ll make two, if agreeable,” laughed Dave. - -The dinner was, naturally, a lively and jolly affair. Every one rose to -the occasion. Jed made the first “oration.” He laughingly expressed the -opinion that the Canadian government could not do better than to employ -the entire Rambler Club to act as an advisory board. - -“Never,” cried the jovial Mr. Duncan, at the conclusion of the -“banquet,” “have I enjoyed myself so much.” - - - - -CHAPTER XXVI - -FACING THE SERGEANT - - -In the outpost barracks of which Sergeant Erskine was in charge a great -crowd had assembled. It included the lads, Jed Warren, Billy Ashe, -Witmar, and Teddy Banes. - -The half-breed’s demeanor toward the boys had entirely changed. And the -bluff old sergeant, too, often looked at them with an expression in -which a great deal of admiration was apparent. - -The rescue of Jed Warren had created a tremendous sensation. The stigma -of “Deserter” was removed. And his superiors expressed as much regret -for ever having suspected him as the dignity of their position would -allow. - -“Young men,” began Sergeant Erskine, in his crisp, businesslike -tone, “you were ordered to report to me by Private William Ashe.” He -smiled rather quizzically. “Of course I know, in view of the unusual -circumstances, you would have done so anyway.” - -“We certainly should,” affirmed Tom. - -“Now, I should like to hear the details of your trip. Somers, kindly -oblige.” - -Bob immediately began; and in his sentences, directly to the point, -recounted everything which had a bearing on the case. - -As he concluded the sergeant nodded toward the half-breed. - -“Banes,” he exclaimed, “I believe you can clear up some of these -points. Begin, for instance, with those mystifying cries and pistol -shots which so startled the boys.” - -“Oh, that’s just what we want to hear about,” cried Dick Travers. - -“I should say we do,” put in Tom. - -Teddy Banes turned his impassive face toward the expectant Ramblers. - -“I sure think I know,” he said, his harsh, guttural voice filling the -room. “Boys go with me to Cree village. Sometimes I see cowpunchers -there, and on that day three--four, maybe.” - -“And so did I!” cried Tom. - -For an instant a gleam of humor seemed to play in Teddy Banes’ eyes. - -“An’ you talk much--very much,” he exclaimed. “You say: ‘No; never we -leave the Northwest Territories until Jed Warren is found.’ And you say -that very loud.” - -“Oh!” said Tom, looking a trifle embarrassed. “Suppose I did? Wasn’t it -true?” - -“Ah--much true! But it do harm. Listen--I tell you how. Those men Hank -Styles’ cowpunchers--but smugglers, too!” - -“Thunderation!” gasped Tom, his expression indicating much surprise. -“If I’d only known that----” - -“Nearly all of us would make fewer mistakes,” interrupted Sergeant -Erskine, in a kindly tone, “if we could only have information in -advance instead of after something has happened. It is not always wise -to speak our thoughts too plainly before strangers.” - -Tom Clifton flushed. He realized that his actions hadn’t been -altogether wise. - -“Yes, smugglers,” went on Teddy Banes, in his imperturbable way. “They -hear what you say. They see six big, strong boys. They get scare, -maybe.” - -“And I’m afraid the rest of the crowd did some hollering, too,” laughed -Dick Travers. “I know I said the same thing myself. Everybody thinking -Jed was a deserter worked us up a bit, I can tell you.” - -“And we had determined to do everything possible to learn the true -facts,” put in Sam Randall, quietly. - -“Smugglers take no chances.” Banes was speaking again. “The men say: -maybe these boys for us make trouble. They come too near where we work. -But we fix ’em.” - -“Banes’ explanation is undoubtedly correct,” interrupted Sergeant -Erskine. “Of course, at that time, none of these cowpunchers was even -suspected. They probably talked it over and decided upon a plan which -they thought would speedily drive you back to civilization. Several of -them followed on your trail and were responsible for the dreadful night -alarms. But the men did not know that you are seasoned veterans of the -plains.” - -The sergeant’s eyes twinkled humorously, and the entire crowd joined in -the laugh which followed. - -“How about that man who attacked me, sergeant?” asked Tom. - -“We have also a very ready explanation for that.” The officer stroked -his iron-gray moustache reflectively. “From your description Private -Ashe immediately came to the conclusion that he was one of the -cowpunchers who had seen your party at the Cree village, and also -overheard what was said in regard to Jed.” - -“Great Cæsar!” murmured Tom. - -“The smugglers with the wagon evidently saw your fire, and this man -concluded it would be wise to investigate. So he reconnoitered. He knew -well enough that if any one should happen to see the wagon there might -be trouble. He was no doubt thoroughly alarmed when he discovered your -identity. In his suspicious state of mind it must have appeared that -you were already on their track.” - -“Yes; there can be no doubt about it,” admitted Dick Travers. - -“If your slumber had not been broken we may reasonably conclude that -the man would, when the vehicle was beyond all chance of discovery, -have simply rejoined his comrades. But you happened to jump up; and he, -fearing recognition, concluded to take you prisoner.” - -“You see,” put in Jed Warren, “Hank knew their game was up. They -couldn’t keep me in the cabin indefinitely. So the idea was to wind up -their business as quickly as possible, then skip out.” - -“May I put a question to Mr. Ashe?” spoke up Larry Burnham. - -“Certainly,” responded the sergeant. - -“How did you happen to get on the trail of the wagon that night?” asked -the blond lad, turning toward the trooper. - -“Well, we were working in that locality, and on the lookout. I reckon -the men were in a desperate hurry, or they wouldn’t have taken a chance -on a night when the moon would be up. We didn’t know where the wagon -came from or its destination.” - -“What made you think they were the smugglers?” asked Sam. - -“Their actions fitted in so well with other information we had that -both Witmar and myself concluded there could be no doubt about it.” - -“Aye, aye!” said Witmar. - -“I will finish the story,” broke in Erskine, in his blunt, -authoritative tone. “Private Ashe, armed with an excellent description -of Clifton’s assailant, immediately reported to the superintendent of -police at a post in the settlement. He conferred with him regarding -his suspicions. What followed would make quite a story, boys, but the -upshot of it was that they decided to make an early morning descent -upon Hank Styles’ ranch-house and capture the entire band.” - -“And the joke was on us,” murmured Witmar. - -“One thing I don’t quite understand,” said Dave, “is this: if the wagon -belonged to Hank Styles, why were the men so foolish as to return -to headquarters, knowing that the finding of the vehicle must throw -suspicion upon them?” - -“There was nothing to identify it as belonging to the ranch. They were -too sly to be caught so easily.” - -“Oh, now it is all clear to me,” declared the “historian.” - -“There is nothing else to say,” remarked Teddy Banes. “Everybody know -everything.” - -“On the contrary, Banes, I have a few remarks to add,” said the -grizzled sergeant. - -“We shall be very glad to hear them,” exclaimed Bob. - -“In a way, you have proved good friends to the smugglers, who were -cowboys and cattle rustlers between times. By a peculiar combination of -circumstances you appeared at exactly the right time to enable them to -escape the clutches of the law.” - -“It was curious,” said Larry. - -“But, on the other hand, you have proved a better friend to the police. -If it hadn’t been for your clever work, Somers”--his stern eyes fell -full on the Rambler’s face--“Jed Warren might not have been found -for many days. Therefore we rather think the balance is entirely in -your favor. So I take the opportunity, as an officer of the Northwest -Mounted, to thank you and your fellow members of the club.” - -“And I am sure we highly appreciate your kind words,” said Bob, while -the rest of the crowd voiced their approval in the most hearty and -spontaneous fashion. - -“I know we shall never forget the great time we’ve had in Canada,” -cried Tom, his face glowing with pride. He looked toward Billy Ashe, -and a twinkle came into his eye. “And the police are certainly a mighty -fine lot--even if they did place us under ‘arrest.’” - -“What are your plans now?” inquired Sergeant Erskine, joining in the -laugh which ran around the room. - -“We shall probably camp out a bit,” answered Bob, “and perhaps try to -get a sight of some big game.” - -“At any rate. I hope you will mess with us to-night?” - -The boys, heartily thanking the sergeant, accepted his kind invitation; -then, not wishing to take up more of his time, withdrew. - -It was mighty pleasant for the boys to see Jed Warren, resplendent in -his scarlet coat, and to reflect how good fortune had aided them in -their fight to bring out the truth. - -Everything around the barracks was so agreeable that they not only -stopped to mess that evening but remained for several days. - -Not long before the time for their departure arrived, an unsigned note -addressed to Sergeant Erskine was brought by a mail carrier. It stated -briefly that the missing Jed Warren could be found in the cabin in the -gulch, the location of which was accurately described. - -“This shows,” commented Sergeant Erskine, exhibiting it to the boys, -“that Hank Styles has some good in his make-up, after all.” - -“Bob,” exclaimed Tom, suddenly, “I guess we’d better be on the move. -You know the time is rushing around fast. I can almost see myself -getting ready for that prep school now--and--and----” - -“And we know you’re not thinking about school books, or examinations, -or any of those things which tax a fellow’s head so confoundedly,” -interrupted Dick, with a laugh. - -“Of course not!” cried Tom. - -Above a loud burst of hilarity which greeted his words, Larry Burnham’s -voice rose high and clear. - -“Hooray--hooray for the Rambler Club’s Football Eleven!” he cried. - -And the others enthusiastically joined in. - - -Other Books in this Series are: - - THE RAMBLER CLUB AFLOAT - THE RAMBLER CLUB’S WINTER CAMP - THE RAMBLER CLUB IN THE MOUNTAINS - THE RAMBLER CLUB ON CIRCLE T RANCH - THE RAMBLER CLUB AMONG THE LUMBERJACKS - THE RAMBLER CLUB’S GOLD MINE - THE RAMBLER CLUB’S AEROPLANE - THE RAMBLER CLUB’S HOUSE-BOAT - THE RAMBLER CLUB’S BALL NINE - THE RAMBLER CLUB’S MOTOR CAR - THE RAMBLER CLUB’S FOOTBALL ELEVEN - - - - -TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES: - - - Italicized text is surrounded by underscores: _italics_. - - Obvious typographical errors have been corrected. - - Inconsistencies in hyphenation have been standardized. - - Archaic or variant spelling has been retained. - - The title of the book on page 9 is shown incorrectly using the word - _Among_ instead of the word _With_. - -*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE RAMBLER CLUB WITH THE -NORTHWEST MOUNTED *** - -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions will -be renamed. - -Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works, -so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the -United States without permission and without paying copyright -royalties. 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Crispin Sheppard—A Project Gutenberg eBook - </title> - <link rel="icon" href="images/cover.jpg" type="image/x-cover" /> - <style> /* <![CDATA[ */ - -body { - margin-left: 10%; - margin-right: 10%; -} - - h1,h2 { - text-align: center; - clear: both; -} - -p { - margin-top: .51em; - text-align: justify; - margin-bottom: .49em; -} - -hr { - width: 33%; - margin-top: 2em; - margin-bottom: 2em; - margin-left: 33.5%; - margin-right: 33.5%; - clear: both; -} - -hr.chap {width: 65%; margin-left: 17.5%; margin-right: 17.5%;} -@media print { hr.chap {display: none; visibility: hidden;} } - - -div.chapter {page-break-before: always;} -h2.nobreak {page-break-before: avoid;} - -table { - margin-left: auto; - margin-right: auto; -} - -.tdr {text-align: right;} - -.pagenum { - position: absolute; - left: 92%; - font-size: smaller; - text-align: right; - font-style: normal; - font-weight: normal; - font-variant: normal; - text-indent: 0; -} - -.center {text-align: center;} - -.right {text-align: right;} - -.smcap {font-variant: small-caps;} - -.ph1 {text-align: center; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;} -.ph2 {text-align: center; font-size: xx-large; font-weight: bold;} - -div.titlepage {text-align: center; page-break-before: always; page-break-after: always;} -div.titlepage p {font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.5; margin-top: 2em;} - -.large {font-size: 125%;} -.small {font-size: 75%;} - -.caption {font-weight: bold; text-align: center;} - -.x-ebookmaker .hide {display: none; visibility: hidden;} - -.figcenter { - margin: auto; - text-align: center; - page-break-inside: avoid; - max-width: 100%; -} - -.poetry-container {text-align: center;} -.poetry {display: inline-block; text-align: left;} - -@media print { .poetry {display: block;} } -.x-ebookmaker .poetry {display: block;} - -.transnote {background-color: #E6E6FA; - color: black; - font-size:smaller; - margin-left: 17.5%; - margin-right: 17.5%; - padding: 1em; - margin-bottom: 1em; - font-family:sans-serif, serif; } - - /* ]]> */ </style> -</head> -<body> -<p style='text-align:center; font-size:1.2em; font-weight:bold'>The Project Gutenberg eBook of The Rambler Club with the Northwest Mounted, by W. Crispin Sheppard</p> -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and -most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms -of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online -at <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a>. If you -are not located in the United States, you will have to check the laws of the -country where you are located before using this eBook. -</div> - -<p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:1em; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Title: The Rambler Club with the Northwest Mounted</p> -<p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Author: W. Crispin Sheppard</p> -<p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Illustrator: W. Crispin Sheppard</p> -<p style='display:block; text-indent:0; margin:1em 0'>Release Date: September 15, 2022 [eBook #68995]</p> -<p style='display:block; text-indent:0; margin:1em 0'>Language: English</p> - <p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em; text-align:left'>Produced by: David Edwards, David E. Brown, and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from images generously made available by The Internet Archive)</p> -<div style='margin-top:2em; margin-bottom:4em'>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE RAMBLER CLUB WITH THE NORTHWEST MOUNTED ***</div> - -<div class="figcenter hide"><img src="images/coversmall.jpg" width="450" alt="" /></div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_0"></span> -<div class="figcenter"><img src="images/frontis.jpg" alt="" /></div> -<p class="caption">HE WAVED HIS HAND</p> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div class="figcenter"><img src="images/titlepage.jpg" alt="" /></div> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="titlepage"> -<h1>The Rambler Club<br /> -<span class="small">with the</span><br /> -Northwest Mounted</h1> - -<p class="center"><span class="large">BY W. CRISPIN SHEPPARD</span></p> - -<p class="center">AUTHOR OF</p> - -<div class="poetry-container"> -<div class="poetry"> -<p>“THE RAMBLER CLUB AFLOAT”<br /> -“THE RAMBLER CLUB’S WINTER CAMP”<br /> -“THE RAMBLER CLUB IN THE MOUNTAINS”<br /> -“THE RAMBLER CLUB ON CIRCLE T RANCH”<br /> -“THE RAMBLER CLUB AMONG THE LUMBERJACKS”<br /> -“THE RAMBLER CLUB’S GOLD MINE”<br /> -“THE RAMBLER CLUB’S AEROPLANE”<br /> -“THE RAMBLER CLUB’S HOUSE-BOAT”<br /> -“THE RAMBLER CLUB’S MOTOR CAR”<br /> -“THE RAMBLER CLUB’S BALL NINE”<br /> -“THE RAMBLER CLUB’S FOOTBALL TEAM”</p> -</div></div> - -<p class="center">Illustrated by the Author</p> - -<div class="figcenter"><img src="images/titlelogo.jpg" alt="" /></div> - -<p class="center"><span class="large">THE PENN PUBLISHING COMPANY<br /> -PHILADELPHIA</span><br /> -MCMXIV</p> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> -<div class="chapter"> -<p class="center"> -COPYRIGHT<br /> -1914 BY<br /> -THE PENN<br /> -PUBLISHING<br /> -COMPANY</p> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_3">[3]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">Introduction</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">When</span> Bob Somers and his four friends, of -Kingswood, Wisconsin, formed the Rambler -Club they probably had little idea of the -numerous and exciting adventures which were -before them. These are related in: “The -Rambler Club Afloat,” “The Rambler Club’s -Winter Camp,” “The Rambler Club in the -Mountains,” “The Rambler Club on Circle T -Ranch,” “The Rambler Club Among the -Lumberjacks,” “The Rambler Club’s Gold -Mine,” “The Rambler Club’s Aeroplane,” -“The Rambler Club’s House-boat,” “The -Rambler Club’s Motor Car,” and “The Rambler -Club’s Ball Nine.”</p> - -<p>The present book carries them to the great -Northwest Territories, patrolled by that famous -body of men known as the Royal Northwest -Mounted Police. Their intention was to camp -out, to see the country, and to meet their old-time -friend, Jed Warren, of Circle T Ranch, -Wyoming, who had become a member of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_4">[4]</span> -the force. The lads’ plans, however, are -thoroughly disarranged at the start by an unwelcome -surprise, and their energies are immediately -turned into other channels. They -do see a great deal of the country, and are also -mixed up with some of the affairs of the -“riders of the plains.” In a great measure -this is brought about through the agency of -big blond Larry Burnham; and the astonishing -events which follow an apparently trivial -occurrence surprise the lads as much as they -do the Royal Northwest Mounted.</p> - -<p>In “The Rambler Club’s Football Eleven” -is told the interesting experiences of the club -at the Wentworth Preparatory School. Here, -again, many unexpected things take place.</p> - -<p class="right"><span class="smcap">W. Crispin Sheppard.</span></p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_5">[5]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">Contents</h2> -</div> - -<table> - -<tr><td class="tdr">I.</td><td> <span class="smcap">At the Barracks</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_9"> 9</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">II.</td><td> “<span class="smcap">Where is Jed Warren?</span>”</td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_22"> 22</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">III.</td><td> <span class="smcap">Teddy Banes</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_39"> 39</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">IV.</td><td> <span class="smcap">In the Saddle</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_49"> 49</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">V.</td><td> <span class="smcap">The Indian Village</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_62"> 62</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">VI.</td><td> <span class="smcap">Billy Ashe</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_78"> 78</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">VII.</td><td> <span class="smcap">The First Camp</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_90"> 90</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">VIII.</td><td> <span class="smcap">The Stampede</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_105"> 105</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">IX.</td><td> <span class="smcap">Larry Has a Plan</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_117"> 117</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">X.</td><td> <span class="smcap">Fool’s Castle</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_126"> 126</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">XI.</td><td> <span class="smcap">The Rider</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_136"> 136</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">XII.</td><td> <span class="smcap">Tom Follows</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_145"> 145</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">XIII.</td><td> <span class="smcap">Smugglers</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_157"> 157</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">XIV.</td><td> <span class="smcap">Larry’s Courage</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_167"> 167</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">XV.</td><td> <span class="smcap">Captured</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_178"> 178</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">XVI.</td><td> <span class="smcap">The Loaded Wagon</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_188"> 188</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">XVII.</td><td> <span class="smcap">The Whole Crowd</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_199"> 199</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">XVIII.</td><td> <span class="smcap">Asking Questions</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_209"> 209</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">XIX.</td><td> <span class="smcap">Bob Rides Alone</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_219"> 219</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">XX.</td><td> <span class="smcap">The Ranch-House</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_235"> 235</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">XXI.</td><td> <span class="smcap">Lost</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_251"> 251</a><span class="pagenum" id="Page_6">[6]</span></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">XXII.</td><td> <span class="smcap">A Cry for Help</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_262"> 262</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">XXIII.</td><td> <span class="smcap">Billy Ashe is Disappointed</span>    </td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_270"> 270</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">XXIV.</td><td> <span class="smcap">The Prisoner</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_281"> 281</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">XXV.</td><td> <span class="smcap">Everybody Happy</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_299"> 299</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">XXVI.</td><td> <span class="smcap">Facing the Sergeant</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_303"> 303</a></td></tr> -</table> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_7">[7]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">Illustrations</h2> -</div> - -<table> - -<tr><td class="tdr" colspan="2"><span class="small">PAGE</span></td></tr> - -<tr><td>“<span class="smcap">Sorry You’re Going So Soon, Boys</span>”     </td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_0"> <i>Frontispiece</i></a></td></tr> - -<tr><td>“<span class="smcap">How Do You Do?</span>”</td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_67"> 67</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td>“<span class="smcap">Good Luck, Old Boy</span>”</td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_147"> 147</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td><span class="smcap">The Whole Crowd Was There</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_203"> 203</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td><span class="smcap">He Looked Up At the Man</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_273"> 273</a></td></tr> -</table> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_8">[8]</span></p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_9">[9]</span> - -<p class="ph2">The Rambler Club Among<br /> -the Northwest Mounted</p> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER I<br /> - -<span class="small">AT THE BARRACKS</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">Sergeant Jarvis Erskine</span> of the Royal -Northwest Mounted Police, stationed at a -lonely outpost barracks, was hard at work on -his headquarters’ report. Occasionally the -sergeant, a tall, spare man with a military -bearing, stopped to stroke his iron-gray moustache, -while a serious expression now and -again seemed to creep into his keen, deep-set -eyes. He glanced toward his lone companion, -Teddy Banes, a half-breed, who sat so motionless -in a shadowed corner of the room as to -give the impression that he was enjoying a -doze.</p> - -<p>Teddy Banes, often employed by the police -as a trail-breaker and scout, had on many -occasions rendered valuable assistance to the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_10">[10]</span> -“riders of the plains.” And though his sullen, -morose nature prevented him from being a -favorite, he possessed the confidence and -esteem of the men at the post.</p> - -<p>“Banes,” exclaimed Sergeant Erskine, -finally breaking the monotonous silence -which the ticking of the clock and the rustling -of the breeze had served to render oppressive, -“I’m afraid this is bad business.” -With his pen half poised in the air, he -turned once more to the half-breed, his -eyes running over the long, lean form huddled -up in the chair. “I say this is bad -business,” repeated the sergeant, in a louder -key. “One of the most promising young -men on the force! I don’t like to think it, -but——”</p> - -<p>For the first time, Teddy Banes stirred, -shifting his position so that the light fell full -across his swarthy, large-featured face and -long black hair.</p> - -<p>“Yes, a bad business, sergeant,” he echoed. -“He gone. No one ever see him more. He—what -you call him—deserter.”</p> - -<p>The palm of the sergeant’s hand came down -upon his desk with a bang.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_11">[11]</span>“Aye! It looks that way, man. And a -fine, well-built chap he was, too.”</p> - -<p>“Bad man scare him, maybe,” said the half-breed, -sinking back into his former position.</p> - -<p>“Jed Warren didn’t look like a chap who -could be easily frightened,” answered Erskine, -with a negative shake of his head. “It’s a -most unfortunate affair—a mystery that the -Northwest Mounted Police are going to solve -in mighty short order.”</p> - -<p>The explosive force with which the sergeant -uttered these words seemed to have the effect -of jerking Teddy Banes to his feet. He began -to pace slowly to and fro, his gaunt shadow -trailing fantastically over the floor and walls -of the sturdy log cabin.</p> - -<p>“He is not the first who has crossed the -United States border and never come back,” -he exclaimed, “and——”</p> - -<p>“Aye, that’s so,” agreed the military-looking -sergeant, “but, somehow, I can’t believe -it of Warren. He should have reported here -at least a week ago.”</p> - -<p>“For sure,” grunted Banes.</p> - -<p>“Of course a good many things could happen -to a trooper in a vast country like this,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_12">[12]</span> -but a man of his intelligence ought certainly -to have been able to get some word to the -post.”</p> - -<p>Teddy Banes came to a halt in front of one -of the windows and gazed reflectively out -into the black, gloomy night. Borne over -the air, blending in with the sighing breeze -and faint whisperings of grasses and leaves, -came the musical chirping of crickets, or the -occasional cry of some nocturnal bird.</p> - -<p>“Guess we never know,” he said, laconically.</p> - -<p>Sergeant Erskine made no reply, but an -uplifting of his eyebrows and a sudden -tightening of his lips indicated that he did -not agree with Teddy Banes’ views.</p> - -<p>For fully ten minutes neither man spoke. -Then the sergeant looked toward the half-breed, -who had resumed his place in the chair. -“Banes,” he said, abruptly, “what in thunder -is the matter with you?”</p> - -<p>“Matter with me!” echoed Teddy. “What -you mean?”</p> - -<p>“Why don’t you say something, instead of -sitting there like a bronze statue?”</p> - -<p>“Me?—I got nothings to say.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_13">[13]</span>“What are you thinking about, then?”</p> - -<p>“What I think about?”</p> - -<p>“Yes. I can’t stand a man sitting around -looking into space. It gets on my nerves. -But if you’re trying to think out a solution of -this little affair I’ll forgive you.” The sergeant, -having finished his report, rose to his -feet and strode across the floor, his tall, erect -form coming to a halt before the half-breed. -“Teddy,” he said, “you’ve done some pretty -good work for the police, and in the job that’s -ahead of us you must do your share.”</p> - -<p>“Why for you ask that, sergeant?” queried -the other. The monotonous tone of his voice -rose slightly. “Always I work hard for the -police. Me the best frien’ they have; they -the best frien’s I have.”</p> - -<p>“Correct,” answered the sergeant, with a -short laugh.</p> - -<p>A strict disciplinarian, Sergeant Jarvis -Erskine, a man whom all his subordinates -highly respected and liked, yet feared, had -always treated the scout with a consideration -which often excited the envy and wonder of -the troopers at the post; and while his stern -presence and penetrating voice may have sometimes<span class="pagenum" id="Page_14">[14]</span> -awed them it never seemed to have that -effect upon the imperturbable, sullen Teddy -Banes.</p> - -<p>The officer turned on his heel and opened -the door, to let a flood of light pour out for a -short distance over the ground. To his left -he saw the men’s quarters, still illuminated, -and faintly heard the sound of their voices. -A dim yellow beam shone from one of the -stable windows, but beyond and on all sides -contours and forms were lost in the darkness -of the night. The pine-clad hill to the north -might as well have been a part of the sky for -all that could be seen of its bold, rugged sides, -which dropped abruptly to the plain. Between -the rifts of cloud, now beginning to break -away, a few stars beamed brightly upon the -earth.</p> - -<p>To the grizzled and seasoned veteran of the -Royal Mounted Police the uninspiring sight -made no impression, and the sudden and -peculiar manner with which he stepped outside -the door was not caused by any phenomenon -of nature.</p> - -<p>“Banes,” he called sharply, “come here!”</p> - -<p>The lethargic movements of the scout<span class="pagenum" id="Page_15">[15]</span> -seemed suddenly to desert him. A few long -strides took him to the officer’s side.</p> - -<p>“Banes”—the sergeant spoke with curious -intensity—“listen!”</p> - -<p>“Ah, you have hear something, sergeant?”</p> - -<p>“Yes—most assuredly,” answered Erskine. -“All the men are at quarters, yet that thick -blackness out there hides either one man or -several. Perhaps Jed Warren is——”</p> - -<p>“No, me think not,” interrupted Banes. -“For sure he crossed the line. No—never -see him more.”</p> - -<p>The half-breed paused, for his keen ears had -suddenly detected the sound of human voices. -True they were so faint and partly swallowed -up in the breeze that only a man whose ears -were trained by long experience would have -noticed them.</p> - -<p>“They were louder than that before, Banes,” -exclaimed the sergeant.</p> - -<p>“Wonder who it be?”</p> - -<p>“Evidently some one who isn’t afraid of -traveling on a dark night.”</p> - -<p>“They come this way, I think.”</p> - -<p>“I only hope it’s Jed Warren, or some one -with a message from him. This is not quite<span class="pagenum" id="Page_16">[16]</span> -the hour for receiving visitors.” Erskine -chuckled audibly. “Still, my suspicions are -always roused when men pass by the brightly-lighted -barracks of the police without stopping -in to say howdy-do.”</p> - -<p>“Yes; for they sure come this way,” said -Teddy Banes. “One, two, three—four, maybe.”</p> - -<p>“Yes; and mounted, as every respectable -man ought to be in a country like this. I’ll -stake my month’s pay I heard the neigh of -a horse.”</p> - -<p>“For sure. I hear him, too.”</p> - -<p>Straining all their faculties the two stepped -from the bright light which issued from the -open door and windows into the gloom beyond. -For some time neither uttered a -sound. But, at length, as the voices which -had so aroused their curiosity were no longer -heard, Sergeant Erskine spoke up:</p> - -<p>“I’ve a good mind to saddle my horse and -take a run out on the prairie.”</p> - -<p>The half-breed grunted a monosyllable.</p> - -<p>“Since Jed Warren’s unaccountable disappearance,” -went on the sergeant, “I am more -particular than ever to look over every one -who passes this way.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_17">[17]</span>“You take lantern then, I s’pose?” said -Teddy Banes, a touch of sarcasm in his tone.</p> - -<p>The sergeant laughed dryly.</p> - -<p>“Quite good, Banes,” he said. “Ah! Did -you hear that?”</p> - -<p>“Certain I hear him,” answered the half-breed.</p> - -<p>“I reckon you are right, Banes. They seem -to be headed this way. From the prairie -these barracks must shine like a constellation.”</p> - -<p>“Nobody could miss him but one who -wants to,” remarked Teddy, sagely.</p> - -<p>“I’m still hoping Jed Warren may be -among that party.”</p> - -<p>“No—no!”</p> - -<p>“What makes you so confounded sure -about it, Banes? Why in thunder do you -always insist he’s a deserter?”</p> - -<p>“Why?” echoed Teddy, sharply. “How -many times you say same thing?”</p> - -<p>“Well, suppose I have? I won’t believe it -until it’s proved. Guess it isn’t necessary to -saddle up, Banes. That bunch out there is -coming nearer every minute.”</p> - -<p>The sound of voices was certainly growing<span class="pagenum" id="Page_18">[18]</span> -louder, while occasionally the hoof-beats of -horses easily overcame the whisperings and -sighings of nature.</p> - -<p>For a long time no visitors had been at the -post. Now and again a ranch owner or some -of his men stopped in to while away a few -hours at the barracks; and all received a -generous welcome at the lonely outpost -station, where the police sometimes grew -tired of always seeing only one another’s faces.</p> - -<p>Within a short time the noise made by the -advancing riders grew to such proportions -that several troopers hurried out of the mess -room to join their commanding officer. And -the rays of light which flashed across their -forms showed them to be strong, athletic-looking -chaps who carried themselves as erect -as any soldiers in the Dominion.</p> - -<p>It was quite evident that all were full of -curiosity, even eagerness, to let their eyes rest -upon the newcomers; and the steady progress -with which the latter were now approaching -made it quite certain that their wishes would -soon be gratified.</p> - -<p>“It sounds like a pretty big crowd,” remarked -Trooper Farr to Jack Stanford.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_19">[19]</span>“’Tain’t often around here that so many’s -travelin’ together.”</p> - -<p>“Maybe they’re from Cummin’s ranch, to -tell us the cattle rustlers have done a couple -more jobs,” said Stanford.</p> - -<p>“Or perhaps Jed Warren has rounded up -that band of smugglers he was after an’ is -bringin’ ’em in single-handed,” laughed Phil -Cole.</p> - -<p>Several minutes passed while the men -busily conjectured and theorized. Then, -from out of the shadows, there appeared -a number of dusky patches so blended and -lost in the surrounding darkness that only -the sharpest eyes could have detected the -forms of horses and riders.</p> - -<p>“Stanford,” commanded Sergeant Erskine, -“go back to the mess room, get a lantern and -hurry down to the gate. Those chaps are going -to miss it by more than a few yards; and -we won’t ask ’em to hurdle over the fence.”</p> - -<p>“If Stanford isn’t quick they may ride into -it and bump their noses,” said Cole, pleasantly.</p> - -<p>Stanford was quick, however. He almost -immediately returned with a lighted lantern,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_20">[20]</span> -which sent curious streaks and dashes of yellow -rays darting in all directions, then, followed -by Trooper Farr, walked rapidly toward -the gate.</p> - -<p>Sergeant Erskine and the others waited and -watched with the keenest interest.</p> - -<p>Suddenly they heard a loud hail from the -distance and an answering salutation from -Stanford.</p> - -<p>It was quite the most unusual event which -had happened at the post for several months; -and those standing close to the barracks experienced -a feeling of satisfaction when they -heard the gate beginning to creak.</p> - -<p>And now from the direction of the swinging -lantern came the sound of clear, lusty -voices, with the heavier tones of Stanford and -Farr joining in.</p> - -<p>It soon became evident from bits of conversation -which were carried crisply over the air -that the visitors had not stumbled accidentally -upon police headquarters. Even Sergeant -Erskine, whose stern exterior seldom reflected -emotion of any sort, felt a rather curious -thrill when he heard Jed Warren’s name pronounced -by various voices.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_21">[21]</span>“Ah, Banes, I reckon we’re going to have -some news from him after all,” he remarked.</p> - -<p>The half-breed made no answer. All the -intensity of his small black eyes was fixed in -the direction of the gate, where the body of -horsemen were now filing in. On they came, -galloping across the grounds with an abandon -that showed them to be skilful riders.</p> - -<p>An instant later the friendly lights of the -barracks plucked forms and faces from the obscurity. -And even Sergeant Erskine allowed -a slight gasp of surprise to escape him when -he noted that the travelers, instead of being -the troop of hardy men he had expected to -see, were but a healthy-looking lot of lads.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_22">[22]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER II<br /> - -<span class="small">“WHERE IS JED WARREN?”</span></h2> -</div> - -<p>“<span class="smcap">Is</span> Sergeant Erskine of the Royal Mounted -Police here?”</p> - -<p>All the boys had swung from the saddle, -and one of their number, advancing toward -the grinning and astonished members of the -police, had asked the question.</p> - -<p>“Great Scott!” murmured Cole. “What -does this mean?—a lot o’ kids!”</p> - -<p>“I am Sergeant Erskine,” answered the officer. -His eyes ran over his questioner, taking -in every detail of the well-set, sturdy figure -which stood before him. “Who are you, -and where do you come from?”</p> - -<p>A very tall lad, looming up behind the first -speaker, took it upon himself to answer.</p> - -<p>“We’re the Rambler Club of Wisconsin,” -he said, in a tone which seemed to indicate -that he felt this announcement ought to create -an enormous sensation.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_23">[23]</span>“The Rambler Club of Wisconsin!” exclaimed -Sergeant Erskine, while several loud -guffaws came from his men. “Who are -they?”</p> - -<p>“My name is Bob Somers,” began the lad -who had spoken first, “and——”</p> - -<p>“Bob Somers!” interrupted Sergeant Erskine. -“Well—a light breaks in upon me, -as the fellow in the only play I ever saw remarked. -If I haven’t heard Jed Warren -mention your name about fifty times I won’t -take the next furlough that’s coming to me.”</p> - -<p>“What’s this we hear about Jed Warren -having disappeared?” demanded the tall lad, -abruptly.</p> - -<p>“Yes, I know all about you chaps now,” -said Erskine, without heeding this remark. -“You boys exchanged a lot of letters with Jed. -He told me he’d asked you to come out.”</p> - -<p>“And we’re here,” said the tall member of -the group.</p> - -<p>“Said you could have lots of fun in the -Northwest Territories camping out, hobnobbing -with an occasional policeman or ranch -owner.”</p> - -<p>“And perhaps incidentally rounding up a<span class="pagenum" id="Page_24">[24]</span> -bunch of smugglers or cattle rustlers,” snickered -Farr.</p> - -<p>“Hey?” said the big boy, quite fiercely.</p> - -<p>“Well, Ramblers,” continued the sergeant, -“I’m sorry you came all this way to meet -with disappointment. Your friend is not -here, and we don’t know when he will be.”</p> - -<p>A chorus of remarks and questions which -immediately began to flow from the lads was -cut short by a wave of Sergeant Erskine’s big -hand.</p> - -<p>“Easy, boys, easy,” he counseled. Then, -turning to Farr, he asked: “Who’s on stable -duty to-night?”</p> - -<p>“Stephen Stevens, sir,” answered the -trooper.</p> - -<p>“Well, tell him to take charge of the horses. -Now, boys,” he added, “come inside. I suppose -you must be pretty tired. How long -have you been in the saddle?”</p> - -<p>“Ever since early this morning,” answered -the tall Rambler. “Tired! Oh, I guess not. -I’m good for another twenty mile jaunt. You -see we’re used to this sort of thing, and——”</p> - -<p>“Tom Clifton is the greatest fellow that -ever happened outside the covers of a story<span class="pagenum" id="Page_25">[25]</span> -book,” came in a drawling voice from some -one. “Never gets tired; never gets sleepy. -He could look a grizzly bear in the face without -even winking. It’s a wonder to me -that——”</p> - -<p>“Oh, cut it all out, Larry Burnham,” -snapped the other. “I wasn’t born lazy, for -one thing. Are we coming in? Yes, sergeant; -right away.”</p> - -<p>As they fell in behind Erskine’s tall, erect -figure the troopers led their tired mounts -toward the stables.</p> - -<p>On two sides of the barracks were long -benches, and upon these six lads were soon -seated comfortably.</p> - -<p>“Sergeant Erskine,” began Bob Somers, -“we’ve heard a good deal about you from Jed. -Now I’ll introduce the crowd.”</p> - -<p>The “crowd” promptly stood up, while Bob -Somers, with a wave of his hand toward each, -in a delightfully informal fashion, made -known their names.</p> - -<p>“Dave Brandon,” he said, indicating a -stout, round-faced lad; “Tom Clifton”—his -hand dropped on the tall boy’s wrist; “Sam -Randall; Dick Travers, and Larry Burnham.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_26">[26]</span>“Last and least,” murmured Tom, sotto -voce.</p> - -<p>“A most promising football player,” went -on Bob, “who thought he’d like to take a -little jaunt out to the Northwest Territories -with us.”</p> - -<p>“That’s putting it pretty mild, Bob,” snickered -Tom Clifton. “If Larry didn’t coax and -plead to come along I’ll——”</p> - -<p>“Just listen to the little story-book hero!” -growled Larry, in accents of disgust. “It’s a -wonder I ever got his permission, I’m sure.”</p> - -<p>“See here, fellows,” interposed Bob Somers, -“we haven’t found out yet why Jed isn’t -here.”</p> - -<p>“That’s so,” cried Tom. “Those chaps who -met us at the gate didn’t say very much, but -what they did say sounded kind of queer.”</p> - -<p>“I should sort o’ think it did,” agreed Larry -Burnham.</p> - -<p>All the boys had reseated themselves except -the latter; and, as the sergeant’s eyes rested -on his six feet of solid bone and muscle, he -thought to himself that, for physique, he had -never seen a better specimen than the blond -youth before him. But he also noticed a<span class="pagenum" id="Page_27">[27]</span> -curious droop in Larry’s mouth and a generally -dissatisfied expression on his face which seemed -to indicate that the “promising football -player” might not be a very pleasant companion -to have around.</p> - -<p>“I say, sergeant, where is Jed Warren?” -inquired Tom Clifton, who possessed a remarkably -gruff voice.</p> - -<p>“He gone, an’ no one ever see him more,” -exclaimed Teddy Banes, abruptly.</p> - -<p>“Gone!—gone from the post?” gasped Tom -Clifton. “What in thunder do you mean? -Why, we got a letter from Jed just a short -time ago telling us what a dandy time we -could have out here!”</p> - -<p>“Perhaps Sergeant Erskine will be willing -to explain,” interposed Dave Brandon, who, -with his eyes half shut, was leaning in a most -comfortable position against the wall.</p> - -<p>“Not the least objection, I’m sure,” answered -Erskine, drawing a chair up before -the group and seating himself. “You see, -quite recently a slick band of smugglers has -begun operations in this part of the country, -and though we’ve been pretty hot on their -trail at times, somehow they’ve always managed<span class="pagenum" id="Page_28">[28]</span> -to elude us. Banes knows all about it, -don’t you, Banes?”</p> - -<p>“Eh—what you mean?” demanded Banes, -coming a step forward, his morose, bronzed -face turned full upon his questioner.</p> - -<p>“What I say,” laughed Erskine. “I guess -you’ll get mixed up in a tussle with them yet, -Banes. But I can see by your faces, boys, -that you’re in suspense. So here’s the -story.”</p> - -<p>“Please do let us have it fast,” said Tom.</p> - -<p>“I will, son. Jed Warren was sent off on -a special assignment to trace up several clues -which we felt certain would finally land the -smugglers in our net.”</p> - -<p>“Well?” queried Tom.</p> - -<p>“He had strict orders to report on a certain -date. And that date was passed more than a -week ago.”</p> - -<p>“Gee whiz!” exclaimed Tom.</p> - -<p>“I suppose, sergeant, you’ve sent out men -to look for him?” drawled Dave Brandon.</p> - -<p>“Your supposition is quite correct,” answered -Erskine. “We have means of tracing -people, and our men kept on Warren’s trail -until a certain point was reached. Then—well—the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_29">[29]</span> -man was nowhere to be found—he -had vanished.”</p> - -<p>“Some accident must have happened to -him,” exclaimed Sam Randall. “We met -Jed on the plains of Wyoming, and you -couldn’t find a straighter, squarer fellow than -he.”</p> - -<p>“I’ll subscribe to that,” put in Bob Somers.</p> - -<p>“When anybody says anything good about -Jed Warren I’ll agree to it,” remarked Dick -Travers.</p> - -<p>“Never having seen the hero I can’t say,” -drawled Larry Burnham, with a sidelong -glance at Tom. “But I’ve heard enough -about him to make me think he’s a wonder.”</p> - -<p>“You’re as sour as you are big,” growled -Tom.</p> - -<p>“Go on, sergeant; please finish your story,” -pleaded Dick Travers.</p> - -<p>“I don’t know about any accident happening -to Warren,” resumed the sergeant, “for -we pretty soon struck a clue which makes -things look bad for him.”</p> - -<p>“What!—How?” cried Tom Clifton, springing -to his feet.</p> - -<p>A ripple of exclamations came from the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_30">[30]</span> -others. Sergeant Erskine surveyed them -gravely.</p> - -<p>“Just this: his horse was recovered on the -other side of the international border. It had -evidently been turned loose. What do you -make out of that?”</p> - -<p>“Never see him more,” exclaimed Teddy -Banes.</p> - -<p>“You mean to say that Jed—Jed Warren—is -a deserter?” demanded Bob Somers, incredulously.</p> - -<p>“We let the facts speak for themselves,” -answered Erskine. “If you were not such -particular friends of his I might tell you that -the Mounted Police are not accustomed to discuss -their affairs with strangers, but——”</p> - -<p>“Of course we understand,” said Dave -Brandon.</p> - -<p>“What are the facts? Just these: It takes -a man of resourcefulness and iron nerve to -work on the kind of a case we put into Jed -Warren’s hands.”</p> - -<p>“Jed has both,” broke in Tom Clifton.</p> - -<p>The sergeant inclined his head, then resumed:</p> - -<p>“At any rate, we have reliable evidence<span class="pagenum" id="Page_31">[31]</span> -that your friend was last seen near the international -boundary line. The next piece of -information which came to us is the declaration -of a border patrol who says Warren told -him he was disgusted with the job.”</p> - -<p>“I can’t believe Jed Warren is a deserter!” -fairly exploded Tom Clifton. His eyes were -flashing. “It’s all ridiculous!”</p> - -<p>“Don’t get excited, Tom,” counseled Larry -Burnham.</p> - -<p>“Why do you think for an instant he’d -have asked us to come out here if he intended -to desert?”</p> - -<p>“Perhaps you will give us your views on -the subject,” said Sergeant Erskine, with a -quizzical light in his eye.</p> - -<p>“Do, Tom; let’s have ’em,” drawled Larry.</p> - -<p>“All I’ve got to say is this,” declared Tom, -hotly: “that no one could ever get me to believe -Jed Warren is that sort of a chap—no -sir!”</p> - -<p>“You wrong, then,” interrupted Teddy -Banes. “Bah! You know nothings.”</p> - -<p>The tall lad turned upon him wrathfully.</p> - -<p>“And what do you know?” he demanded.</p> - -<p>“What I know? You ask him.” The<span class="pagenum" id="Page_32">[32]</span> -half-breed’s bony finger was pointed directly -at Erskine.</p> - -<p>“Teddy Banes is one of the best scouts the -police ever employed,” explained the sergeant. -“The coyote hasn’t much on him when it -comes to following trails. When he thinks a -man has crossed the border line I’m pretty -well satisfied he has; and Banes”—Erskine -paused impressively—“says he doesn’t see -how the evidence could mean anything else.”</p> - -<p>“Goodness gracious! It seems to me we’re -always running into some sort of a mystery,” -sighed the stout boy, whose eyes were now -wide open.</p> - -<p>“That’s so. When we’re around something -is always happening,” said Dick Travers.</p> - -<p>“And, from what Tom Clifton says, I should -judge the Rambler Club is one of the greatest -mystery-solving organizations in America,” -gurgled Larry Burnham.</p> - -<p>“Oh, but you do make me tired, Larry,” -burst out Tom, darting an angry look at the -big blond boy. “But I can tell you this”—he -stopped an instant to give his words added -effect—“we came up in Canada to camp out, -and to see the country; but I vote that we<span class="pagenum" id="Page_33">[33]</span> -get busy on this case, and—and—help to solve -it.”</p> - -<p>To Tom’s intense indignation, the usually -quiet and undemonstrative Larry began to -roar with laughter. He slapped his knees, -poked Dave Brandon violently in the ribs, -and ended up his outburst by slapping Dick -Travers on the shoulder.</p> - -<p>“I thought so; I thought so!” he cried. -“Think of his nerve, fellows—talking that -way before an officer of the Royal Mounted -Police! If they can’t solve the mystery -Tom’ll do it for ’em. Now I sort o’ think the -sergeant ought to be pleased.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, get out!” scoffed Tom, a trifle disconcerted -to find the stern, deep-set eyes of Sergeant -Erskine leveled full upon him. “Do -you suppose we’re going to sit around and do -nothing while Jed is suspected of being a deserter? -Well, I guess not!”</p> - -<p>“What you do?” demanded Banes, with a -guttural laugh.</p> - -<p>“You’ll find out one of these days,” answered -Tom.</p> - -<p>The sergeant’s eyes were beginning to -twinkle.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_34">[34]</span>“I had no idea we were to receive a visit -from so highly trained a body,” he remarked, -with a tinge of sarcasm in his tones. “Candidly, -my curiosity’s aroused: tell me something -about yourselves, and how you were -able to find your way to our barracks on a -dark night like this.”</p> - -<p>“Dave Brandon is our historian,” laughed -Bob. “Speak up, Dave, and oblige the sergeant.”</p> - -<p>Dave protested; he tried to pass along the -honor. But, by unanimous vote, the others -overruled him. So the “historian,” with a -sigh, began.</p> - -<p>It was quite a long story that Sergeant -Erskine heard, and frequently a slight smile -played about his mouth. At times he asked -questions, too, which brought a snapping light -into Tom Clifton’s eyes, for they seemed to -indicate doubt on the part of the speaker.</p> - -<p>“Well, well,” he exclaimed finally, leaning -back in his chair and fumbling a heavy watch -fob which hung from his pocket. “’Pon my -word, it’s quite remarkable! What do you -think of it, Banes?”</p> - -<p>“Not much. I think nothings of it,” answered<span class="pagenum" id="Page_35">[35]</span> -the half-breed, surlily. “It is like the -big wind in the trees which makes a noise and -nothing more.”</p> - -<p>Erskine came as near to laughing as he -ever did, while Larry Burnham immediately -went into another paroxysm of mirth.</p> - -<p>“A corking good simile,” he exclaimed. -“How about it, Tom? For goodness’ sake, -don’t look so mad.”</p> - -<p>“Who’s mad?” sneered Tom.</p> - -<p>“You mustn’t mind Teddy Banes,” said -Sergeant Erskine. “He generally speaks his -mind pretty freely. So you steered your way -here by the aid of maps and a compass, eh?”</p> - -<p>“But it was only by good luck that we -managed to hit it right,” remarked Dave, -modestly.</p> - -<p>“Our field-glass helped some, too,” supplemented -Bob. “You see, we reached the summit -of a hill—it was a mighty long way from -here, too; but the instrument obligingly -picked out these lights.”</p> - -<p>“So we guessed they must come from -either a ranch-house or a barracks,” finished -Tom.</p> - -<p>“An’ it wasn’t any easy job to keep<span class="pagenum" id="Page_36">[36]</span> -steerin’ in the right direction,” interposed -Larry Burnham. “We got mixed up so -often that I began to think we were in for -another little snooze under the stars.”</p> - -<p>“Well, boys, you’re all right,” said Erskine, -heartily. “I can see that your outdoor life -has made you self-reliant, anyway. There’s -plenty of room for you over in the men’s -quarters, so I invite the crowd to stay.”</p> - -<p>“An’ I sort o’ think we’ll accept,” drawled -Larry. “Outdoor life may make a chap -self-reliant, but it can also give him a confounded -lot of aches an’ pains.”</p> - -<p>“Humph!” sniffed Tom, “you’re not seasoned -yet.”</p> - -<p>“I’m seasoned enough to get pretty hot at -times,” growled Larry.</p> - -<p>“How long you stay here?” demanded -Teddy Banes, suddenly.</p> - -<p>“We won’t get back over the boundary -line until this Jed Warren affair is settled,” -answered Tom, firmly.</p> - -<p>“Bah! You can do nothings. It makes -me laugh.”</p> - -<p>“Well, laugh, then,” retorted Tom. “I -guess we won’t mind.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_37">[37]</span>“It seems pretty certain that I shall have -to do some more writing in that book of -mine,” Dave Brandon was saying to Bob -Somers.</p> - -<p>“And I guess that means another serial for -the Kingswood High School ‘Reflector,’” -said Larry Burnham. “What’s that, sergeant—do -we want a bite to eat? No, thanks. -We’ve had our canned goods, salt pork and -other delicacies.”</p> - -<p>“And I’m uncommonly glad to have found -a good place to rest,” said Dave. “A thousand -thanks, sergeant.”</p> - -<p>Erskine nodded.</p> - -<p>“You’re more than welcome,” he said. He -turned toward Sam Randall, who had asked -a question in regard to the duties and work -of the Royal Northwest Mounted Police. -“Yes; I don’t mind telling you something -about it,” he answered.</p> - -<p>Erskine was so disarmed by the liveliness -and hearty good spirits of the crowd that his -usually severe and frigid demeanor unconsciously -slipped away.</p> - -<p>So the boys soon learned many interesting -things about the hardships and dangers which<span class="pagenum" id="Page_38">[38]</span> -often confront the police. As Dave said, it -was very delightful to sit in the comfortable -barracks and listen to tales which often -thrilled. Each member of the group, however, -would have felt a great deal more lighthearted -but for their disappointment at not -meeting Jed Warren and the added feeling -of apprehension which his strange absence -caused.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_39">[39]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER III<br /> - -<span class="small">TEDDY BANES</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">After</span> their many hours in the saddle the -lads spent a comfortable night in the men’s -quarters. True, Dave Brandon and Larry -Burnham were the only ones fortunate -enough to have bunks; but the other “seasoned -veterans of mountains and plains,” as -Larry facetiously dubbed them, rolled themselves -up in blankets and slept as soundly as -though in their own bedrooms at home.</p> - -<p>On the following morning all were astir -soon after the beams of light from the rising -sun began to trace their cheerful course over -the somber walls. They met two other troopers -besides Stanford, Farr and Cole, and each -declared himself heartily pleased to see the -visitors.</p> - -<p>“I hope to thunder you’re going to hang -around here for a while, boys,” said Stanford, -as they all sat at a long table in the mess room -eating breakfast.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_40">[40]</span>“Can’t,” answered Tom Clifton, laconically.</p> - -<p>“Why not?”</p> - -<p>“Well, you see, we’ve got to hunt for Jed -Warren.”</p> - -<p>“Tom is bound to give some pointers to -the Mounted Police,” remarked Larry, with -his usual drawl.</p> - -<p>“Don’t try to be funny,” snapped Tom.</p> - -<p>“You’re the only one around here that’s -funny,” said the “promising football player,” -with conviction.</p> - -<p>“It’s too early in the morning to start -scrapping, fellows,” laughed Dave. “What’s -the program for to-day, Bob?”</p> - -<p>“Of course I agree with Larry that it’s all -nonsense for us to expect to beat the police at -their own game,” began Bob. “Still——”</p> - -<p>“Still what?” interposed Tom, with a toss -of his head.</p> - -<p>“Sergeant Erskine was good enough to tell -me the direction in which Jed was going. He -gave me a lot of other clues, too, which may -help us to follow him up.”</p> - -<p>“I knew you’d agree with my plan!” cried -Tom, enthusiastically.</p> - -<p>“His plan!” snickered Larry.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_41">[41]</span>“Well, I’ll leave it to the crowd: didn’t I -tell Sergeant Erskine last night——”</p> - -<p>“Oh, yes—that the bunch was going to -solve the mystery,” jeered Larry.</p> - -<p>“Wouldn’t make us jealous a bit if you -did, I’m sure,” said Stephen Stevens, with a -hearty laugh. “Poor old Jed! He seemed -to be a pretty good sort. For my part, I don’t -believe a word of all this yawp about his deserting.”</p> - -<p>“Can’t say I like the way his nag was -found, though,” said Cole, shaking his head.</p> - -<p>“Nor me, either,” admitted Farr.</p> - -<p>“And Warren was certainly too good a -rider to get thrown,” came from Stanford.</p> - -<p>“I’m afraid Jed may have met with some -serious accident,” said Sam Randall, thoughtfully. -“I do wish to thunder all this hadn’t -happened. We were going to have such -dandy fun camping out.”</p> - -<p>“I’ve got an idea that Jed’s all right,” insisted -Tom, stoutly. “Say, fellows, what do -you think? The sarge told me last night——”</p> - -<p>From the tone of his voice one might have -supposed that Tom and the sergeant had become -the greatest of cronies.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_42">[42]</span>“What?” asked Dick Travers.</p> - -<p>“Jed’s a Canadian.”</p> - -<p>“Get out!” cried Sam Randall.</p> - -<p>“It’s a fact. Any of you chaps ever ask -him where he came from?”</p> - -<p>The noes had it unanimously.</p> - -<p>“I knew it,” grinned Tom. “When we -met Jed at Circle T Ranch in Wyoming I always -thought he was an out and out bona fide -American cowboy. Gee! A chap can’t be -sure about anything—can he?”</p> - -<p>“You seem to be sure about everything,” -chirped Larry.</p> - -<p>“I certainly am sure about your being the -laziest fellow who ever traveled with our -crowd,” retorted Tom, witheringly. “Say, -Bob, let’s hurry up. You see, if——”</p> - -<p>Tom suddenly stopped, for the faint sound -of a footstep just outside reached his ears; -and, on looking up, he saw a lean, muscular -form suddenly appear in the doorway, a proceeding -which threw a long, gaunt shadow -over the floor.</p> - -<p>As the rosy morning light played across it, -Teddy Banes’ swarthy face suggested a head -of bronze.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_43">[43]</span>Tom Clifton was not at all pleased. He -had taken a great dislike to the half-breed, -and, somehow, felt it was cordially returned. -The man’s sullen demeanor, a peculiar glint -in his eyes, and his apparent contempt for the -club inspired Tom with indignation.</p> - -<p>“Good-morning,” saluted Bob Somers.</p> - -<p>“Mornin’,” responded Teddy Banes, slipping -upon his seat by the table. “How soon -you go away?”</p> - -<p>“Right after breakfast,” answered Bob.</p> - -<p>“Back to States, eh?”</p> - -<p>“Back to the States nothing,” sniffed Tom.</p> - -<p>“Why? What you do, then?” inquired -Banes, fixing his dark eyes intently upon him.</p> - -<p>“Don’t you worry.”</p> - -<p>“What you mean?”</p> - -<p>“That our crowd doesn’t intend to get away -from Canada until we’ve learned what happened -to Jed Warren—that’s what I mean.”</p> - -<p>“I certainly shouldn’t like to,” said Bob, -thoughtfully.</p> - -<p>“Shouldn’t like to! Well, for my part, I -won’t!” cried Tom, emphatically.</p> - -<p>His hand came down on the table with sufficient -force to rattle the dishes.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_44">[44]</span>“If necessary I suppose you’ll clear it all -up alone,” teased Larry, winking in the direction -of Farr.</p> - -<p>The opportune appearance of the cook to -serve the half-breed probably prevented a -lively wrangle between the two, for the crushing -retort which Tom was about to utter remained -unspoken.</p> - -<p>“One thing I tells you,” remarked Banes; -“in a big country like this you boys get lost—starve, -maybe.”</p> - -<p>“Just listen to him,” said Tom, disgustedly. -“Lost!—Starve! It shows just how much -you know about us, Mr. Teddy Banes. Our -crowd has traveled a lot and been in some -pretty tight places—yes, sir. We know enough -to keep out of any very bad mess.”</p> - -<p>“Many bad mens around here—smugglers—cattle -rustlers,” continued Banes. “They -shoot, maybe—shoot to kill. You laugh! -Ah! You think it is nothings! Ask Stanford; -ask Cole. Listen!”—The half-breed -raised a large brown finger in the air. “Much -dangerous, I tell you again. Warren a brave -man, yet he get scared; yes—so scared he desert.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_45">[45]</span>“No such thing!” stormed Tom.</p> - -<p>“An’ I say yes. Better go, or maybe you -never see home again.”</p> - -<p>“That sounds interesting,” exclaimed Larry -Burnham. “But in this confounded big -country it wouldn’t be such a hard matter -to get lost, as he says, Tom. An’ who knows -but some of the chaps we’d meet might be -pretty rough characters?”</p> - -<p>“Oh, if you’re getting frightened,” began -Tom.</p> - -<p>“No, I’m not getting frightened, but talking -common sense. Suppose we couldn’t find -water? Or suppose, for instance——”</p> - -<p>“Oh, for goodness’ sake, don’t suppose any -more. Fellows, let’s escort Larry over to the -nearest railroad station and see him safely -aboard,” said Tom, so disgusted that a hot -flush mantled his cheek. “We don’t want -any pullbacks or kickers in this crowd.”</p> - -<p>“What’s the use of jawing so much?” put in -Sam Randall. “Larry doesn’t want to back -out.”</p> - -<p>“You chaps look as if you were able to take -care of yourselves,” said Farr, “and there -isn’t much danger as long as you don’t wander<span class="pagenum" id="Page_46">[46]</span> -too far away from the settlements or Indian -villages. But as for your finding out anything -about Jed Warren!”—he laughed—“sounds -rather like a joke to me.”</p> - -<p>“I sort o’ think it does,” drawled Larry.</p> - -<p>“Your sort of thinks make me smile,” -grumbled Tom.</p> - -<p>“I believe in action—not words,” laughed -Dave Brandon. “Wake me up, fellows, when -it’s time to start.”</p> - -<p>“It’s time now,” cried Dick Travers, jumping -to his feet. “Let’s saddle up, boys, and -hit the trail.”</p> - -<p>“Where for?” asked one of the troopers.</p> - -<p>“Sergeant Erskine told me there is a Cree -village a good many miles to the northwest of -here,” answered Bob Somers, “and as he said -Jed Warren passed that way we thought we’d -take it in and interview the chief.”</p> - -<p>“Indians!” mused Larry, reflectively.</p> - -<p>“Oh, you needn’t be afraid, son,” laughed -Cole. “There isn’t anything fierce or warlike -about ’em; though years ago, before the herds -of buffalo had given place to long-horned cattle, -they used to have some fierce mix-ups -with the Sioux and Blackfeet.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_47">[47]</span>“I’ll be little Fear-not, with Tom Clifton -along,” laughed Larry.</p> - -<p>“In a couple of days you no more talk like -that,” grumbled Teddy Banes. “I start for -village this morning. We go together.”</p> - -<p>This information had the effect of putting -Tom in a very bad humor indeed. He wanted -to get away from the sight of Teddy Banes’ -sullen face; and to feel that he was going to -have his company all day put a very frowning -expression on his face. He was almost on the -point of objecting, but, seeing that the announcement -had no effect on his companions, -refrained.</p> - -<p>By the time the crowd had bidden Sergeant -Erskine good-bye Stephen Stevens had the -horses saddled and bridled. He saw to it, -too, that the saddle bags were well filled.</p> - -<p>The men who wore the scarlet jackets gathered -around, as the horses, refreshed by rest -and food, impatiently pawed the ground, or -sought to pull away from restraining hands.</p> - -<p>“Sorry you’re going so soon, boys,” said -Farr. “Before leaving the country be sure to -drop in and see us again.”</p> - -<p>“You can just bet we will—and perhaps<span class="pagenum" id="Page_48">[48]</span> -we’ll bring some news, too,” cried Tom, -swinging into the saddle. “So-long, sergeant!” -He waved his hand as the commanding -figure of Erskine appeared at the -headquarters door. “Whoop! Come on, fellows. -The search begins.”</p> - -<p>With farewells flung over their shoulders, -the six riders galloped away, leaving the sullen, -morose-looking Teddy Banes to follow at -his leisure.</p> - -<p>“Bah!” exclaimed the latter to Cole. -“Make me sick. Why for you not tell them -to go away?”</p> - -<p>“Because I didn’t choose to,” laughed the -other. “Besides, I reckon a few days traveling -about with not a soul in sight but themselves -will cure ’em of any hankerin’ to stay.”</p> - -<p>“For sure. They go, an’ never come back,” -agreed Banes.</p> - -<p>And, with a surly nod which took in the -entire group, he gave his reins a jerk, in -obedience to which his brown and white-patched -horse began to pound swiftly toward -the gate.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_49">[49]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER IV<br /> - -<span class="small">IN THE SADDLE</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">Once</span> out of sight of the police barracks -Larry Burnham began to question the wisdom -of his course in accompanying the Ramblers -to the Northwest Territories. It was a -very different matter, he reflected, to sit in an -easy chair and read about the kind of experiences -they were having than it was to be an -actual participant in them. Every bone and -muscle in his big frame voiced a protest to -the strain he had put on them the day before. -Then, too, they had had so many difficulties -in finding the way that the warnings of Teddy -Banes began to be forced unpleasantly on his -mind.</p> - -<p>Suppose they did get lost? Suppose their -canteens were emptied while they were in the -midst of a wild and trackless country far -from any streams or lakes?—what then? -And, worst of all, suppose ill-fortune did<span class="pagenum" id="Page_50">[50]</span> -throw them in the path of smugglers or other -dangerous characters?</p> - -<p>The big blond football player didn’t like to -think about these things. But, in spite of -his efforts, he often found his mind going -over and over such unpleasant possibilities.</p> - -<p>“It strikes me as foolish business,” he murmured. -“Then, Tom Clifton always jumping -on me is a trifle more’n I care to stand.”</p> - -<p>The sound of a horse’s hoofs rising above -the steady patter of the cavalcade caused him -to look around.</p> - -<p>Teddy Banes was rapidly overtaking them. -With a six-shooter at his belt, a rifle resting -across the pommel of his saddle, and the -fringe of his buckskin coat flapping about, he -seemed, in Larry Burnham’s eyes at least, to -typify the country.</p> - -<p>His gaze followed the half-breed as he -swung toward the head of the column, and -he could not help admiring the superb horsemanship -which every movement of his lithe -body expressed.</p> - -<p>Although it was still early the day gave an -indication of the heat that was yet to come. -Not a cloud flecked the surface of the sky,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_51">[51]</span> -which at the horizon became enveloped in a -scintillating whitish haze that almost dazzled -the eye.</p> - -<p>“It certainly is a vast country,” thought -Larry. He raised himself in his stirrups to -gaze in all directions.</p> - -<p>On every side it wore the same appearance—waving -yellow bunch grass covering an undulating -prairie, with here and there a low -line of hills to break its monotonous uniformity.</p> - -<p>And as he gazed upon this immensity of -space it seemed to forcibly impress upon his -mind the insignificance of all living things. -How small the horsemen just ahead appeared!</p> - -<p>“Great Scott!” he remarked, half aloud. -“And yet Tom Clifton has an idea we may -be able to strike that policeman’s trail.”</p> - -<p>It all seemed so preposterous—so utterly -without reason—that Larry burst into a peal -of laughter, somewhat to the astonishment of -Dick Travers who was cantering several yards -in advance. Larry, however, without offering -an explanation, spurred up his horse, soon -overtaking Bob Somers and the half-breed at -the head of the column.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_52">[52]</span>“We’re forging ahead, Bob,” he said. “And -gee, I certainly do hope we find some sort of -shade by the time the mercury climbs up in -the hundreds.”</p> - -<p>“It’s going to be a scorcher, all right,” said -Bob, cheerfully.</p> - -<p>“What time ought we to reach this Cree -village?”</p> - -<p>“Late in the afternoon.”</p> - -<p>Larry groaned.</p> - -<p>“Gee whiz, Bob, I call this pretty hard -work,” he groaned. “Yet I s’pose Tom Clifton’s -thinkin’ he’s having the grandest time -of his life.”</p> - -<p>“You bet I am,” sang out Tom, who had -overheard. “There’s nothing like having a -good horse under you and plenty of space to -gallop in, eh, Bob? Besides, there’s always a -chance for adventure.”</p> - -<p>“And if we really don’t run into a lot I’ll -be surprised,” said Dave Brandon.</p> - -<p>“So will I,” laughed Sam Randall.</p> - -<p>“Most likely there are some ranch-houses -not so very far from here,” said Tom; “and -if so it means we’re likely to see big bunches -of longhorns roaming over the prairie before<span class="pagenum" id="Page_53">[53]</span> -very long. Then, perhaps, a smuggler or two -may bob up to help make things interesting.”</p> - -<p>Tom glared sternly toward the half-breed, -who seemed to be totally oblivious of their -presence.</p> - -<p>This remark, however, had the effect of -bringing his head sharply around, to reveal a -curious light in his black, snappy eyes.</p> - -<p>“Ah, you make fun of Teddy Banes,” he -growled. “But you see! How long you been -here?—few days, eh? Me lived here always; -yet you know more already.”</p> - -<p>“How could you expect it otherwise?” -grinned Larry Burnham. “I sort o’ think -it’s Tom Clifton’s privilege to know more’n -anybody else.”</p> - -<p>A long, low line of hills was looming up -before the travelers. Here and there a dark, -scraggly tree spotted their surface, while -mingling in with the soft billowing folds of -grass, which, under the effects of the faint -breeze, seemed to ripple like waves of the sea, -were stretches of purplish earth.</p> - -<p>“An’ beyond them I suppose it looks just -like this; an’ beyond some other hills just -like this again,” grumbled Larry. “Whew,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_54">[54]</span> -but it’s gettin’ hot! If there’s any shade on -the other side, for goodness’ sake let’s take a -rest. How do you know we’re goin’ in the -right direction, Bob Somers?”</p> - -<p>“By the aid of map and compass,” answered -Bob. “Of course, though, Teddy -Banes knows the easiest route; so I’m leaving -it to him.”</p> - -<p>“How far is he going with us?”</p> - -<p>“To the Cree village.”</p> - -<p>“Then me leave,” grunted the half-breed.</p> - -<p>As the seven horsemen cantered swiftly -through the tall grass, beating it under foot, -the crest of the hills rose higher and sharper -against the sky. Instead of making directly -toward them, as Larry expected, Teddy Banes -soon swerved to the left, and the blond lad -finally discovered that he was leading them -toward a point where gray masses of shadow -indicated a deep cleft in the slopes.</p> - -<p>Eagerly he kept his eyes on the grateful -shade, watching it growing stronger with a -feeling of intense satisfaction; and when at -last his sorrel picked its way into a pass -cluttered with underbrush and stones he gave -a shout of approval.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_55">[55]</span>By the side of an overhanging slope the -half-breed drew rein.</p> - -<p>“Much hot,” he said, using a gorgeously -red handkerchief to mop his perspiring face. -“But this is nothings. In a few days you see.”</p> - -<p>“Well, I don’t think I’ll wait to see,” -growled Larry.</p> - -<p>“This isn’t anything,” said Tom Clifton. -“And I’ll bet it isn’t going to be a bit hotter. -Besides, when a chap’s on a roughing-it expedition -he’s got to expect all sorts of things.”</p> - -<p>“Another lecture from the scout-master,” -grinned Larry.</p> - -<p>“And if he can’t stand ’em, and gets -grumpy and sour-faced he ought to stay at -his own cozy little home.”</p> - -<p>“Mercy! I suppose a broadside like that -ought to bowl me right over,” said Larry. -“When you get to be a doctor, Tom, you’re -likely to scare your patients into recovering -fast.”</p> - -<p>Tom, with a shrug of his shoulders, turned -toward Dave Brandon, the first to tether his -horse and find a comfortable resting place. -“Why so quiet, Dave? What are you thinking -about?” he inquired.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_56">[56]</span>The chronicler of the Rambler Club’s adventures -made no reply until the others were -sprawling in various attitudes in the most inviting -places they could find. Then he said, -slowly:</p> - -<p>“Thinking about something serious, Tom.”</p> - -<p>“Do let your musings find expression in -words,” grinned Clifton.</p> - -<p>“Well, you know, we graduated at the -Kingswood High School last term——”</p> - -<p>“Gracious sakes, I’ve been trying to forget -school,” interrupted the tall boy.</p> - -<p>“I can’t,” said Dave, solemnly. “Every -once in a while it persists in bobbing up in -my mind with fearful force.”</p> - -<p>“Poor chap—but what’s the use of it now?”</p> - -<p>“Well, isn’t the crowd going to enter the -Wentworth Preparatory School next fall?”</p> - -<p>“Of course.”</p> - -<p>“And that means more hard study—athletics, -perhaps, and——”</p> - -<p>“Athletics! That’s so!” broke in Tom, his -expression undergoing a wonderful change. -“If I don’t become a candidate for a freshman -team Larry isn’t a tenderfoot.”</p> - -<p>“My foot isn’t very tender when it comes<span class="pagenum" id="Page_57">[57]</span> -to kicking a pigskin,” laughed Larry. “By -the way, fellows, I haven’t thought much -about it, but I’d like to enter that school myself.”</p> - -<p>“Bully idea! Why don’t you?” asked -Sam Randall.</p> - -<p>“Well, the fact is, my people aren’t very -well fixed.”</p> - -<p>“Work your way through school, then. -Lots of chaps do it.”</p> - -<p>“By George, I sort o’ think it would be a -good plan,” said Larry, forgetting for an instant -his usual drawl. “Honest—I’m just -aching to tumble into football togs.”</p> - -<p>“And with twelve feet of Clifton and Burnham -any eleven ought to be a winner,” -laughed Bob.</p> - -<p>Larry was so pleased with the idea that he -very nearly forgot the heat and clouds of insects -which persisted in buzzing around his -head.</p> - -<p>All the discomforts, however, which nature -held in store for him were forcibly recalled to -his mind when the half-breed, with a sullen -grunt, commanded them to mount.</p> - -<p>The shade did not extend far. Soon, leaving<span class="pagenum" id="Page_58">[58]</span> -the miniature canyon, they came out upon -the yellow plain once more, to see shimmering -heat waves between them and a hazy distance. -The only living object was a flock of -birds, but so far off that none could recognize -their species.</p> - -<p>Then followed a ride which Larry Burnham -never forgot, and which, for the time being, -completely effaced from his mind any pleasing -thoughts of Freshfield Prep School or -football.</p> - -<p>At his home near Kingswood, Wisconsin, -he had considered himself a pretty good rider. -But an occasional jog to town or about the -farm was not at all like spending entire days -in the saddle. He looked curiously at his -companions to see if they seemed to be affected -in any way by the ordeal. But all appeared -exasperatingly fresh and unconcerned.</p> - -<p>Tom Clifton, indeed, wore such an air of -joy that Larry felt positively aggrieved.</p> - -<p>“This isn’t quite the thing I bargained for,” -he reflected, grimly. “I imagined a nice camp -in a patch of woods, an’ a bit of huntin’ an’ -fishin’—not a crazy search after a policeman -who has done the disappearin’ act. Of course<span class="pagenum" id="Page_59">[59]</span> -he deserted—the chump! Everything points -that way. Gee whiz! Another day o’ this, -an’ I think I’ll get out.”</p> - -<p>An hour later they reached the bed of a -dried up creek fringed on either side by -bushes and scrawny willows. And here -Teddy Banes forgot his usual surly manner -long enough to show them many evidences -of ancient buffalo trails.</p> - -<p>“Too bad they nearly wiped the poor creatures -out,” said Tom.</p> - -<p>“I guess you mean it’s too bad they didn’t -let a few herds remain to be targets for the -rifles of the Rambler Club,” said Larry, sourly. -“How much further have we to go, Banes?”</p> - -<p>“Many miles,” responded the half-breed. -“We have just begin.”</p> - -<p>“This is certainly the country of long distances,” -said Sam Randall, smiling in spite -of himself as he noticed the unhappy expression -which flitted across Larry’s face.</p> - -<p>The creek bottom, often overgrown with -sage-brush, wound its tortuous course in a -westerly direction toward another line of -hills. From the nostrils and shaggy coats -of the horses rose clouds of steam; and, as<span class="pagenum" id="Page_60">[60]</span> -they did not wish to push the animals too -hard, the aspect of the ridges changed with -exasperating slowness.</p> - -<p>Finally, however, they entered another gap, -through which the former water route became -strewn with rocks, decaying branches and -other obstructions. All this necessitated slow -traveling—a slowness which sorely taxed -Larry Burnham’s patience. And every now -and then a rather indiscreet remark of Tom’s -served to further add to his troubled feelings.</p> - -<p>“Yes, sir, I’ve had enough of this,” he -muttered, disgustedly. “The first chance I -get I’ll clear out an’ leave this bunch to keep -up the chase all by themselves.”</p> - -<p>And Bob, who surmised from Larry’s expression -the state of his feelings, thought to -console him.</p> - -<p>“It isn’t going to be as bad as this always,” -he said.</p> - -<p>“I’m quite certain of that,” responded -Larry, meaningly.</p> - -<p>And nothing occurred during the afternoon’s -ride to change a resolution he had -made on a certain point.</p> - -<p>It was decided not to halt for lunch, the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_61">[61]</span> -travelers contenting themselves with crackers, -dried beef, and a drink of water from their -canteens.</p> - -<p>At last the half-breed leader left the creek -bottom and struck off once more through the -bunch grass toward a third range of thickly-timbered -hills.</p> - -<p>On reaching them the boys this time found -no convenient pass through which they might -file. The odor of the fragrant balsam and fir -filling the air, with other sweet scents from -leaves and grass, was very delightful to inhale, -and the cool bluish shadows trailing over the -ground an agreeable change from the glare -of the open spaces.</p> - -<p>For the last hour the boys had carried on -very little conversation. Larry himself felt -too hot and miserable to utter a word. He was, -therefore, totally unprepared for the view which -met his eye upon reaching the top of the hills.</p> - -<p>Down in a basin, or, rather, amphitheater, -enclosed on three sides by the tree-grown -slopes, he saw a large collection of Indian -teepees. It was a sight which almost made -him join in the exultant shout which came -from Tom Clifton’s lips.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_62">[62]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER V<br /> - -<span class="small">THE INDIAN VILLAGE</span></h2> -</div> - -<p>“<span class="smcap">Hooray</span>—Cree village!” cried Tom.</p> - -<p>“Yes,” assented the half-breed. “Soon you -see Wandering Bear, much big chief, old as a -withered tree, but strong.”</p> - -<p>Dave Brandon looked earnestly at the -picturesque circle of teepees, one in the center -dominating all the rest, and at the red men -he could see on every side. Many, attracted -by their appearance, were stalking solemnly -forward.</p> - -<p>“Oh, ho, this is mighty interesting,” he -murmured. “What a nice sheltered retreat.” -His eyes wandered from the teepees to the -break in the hills beyond, where a silvery -streak of white indicated a water course. -“Guess I’ll have to devote a whole chapter in -my book to this, eh, Bob?”</p> - -<p>“At least two or three,” laughed Bob.</p> - -<p>“Hello,” cried Sam Randall, “what’s that -scarlet spot down there? See it, fellows?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_63">[63]</span>He pointed toward a group in the furthest -part of the encampment. Strikingly prominent -in the midst of the dusky mass was a -spot of color.</p> - -<p>“Him a policeman,” answered Teddy -Banes.</p> - -<p>“Great Scott!” cried Dick Travers. -“Wouldn’t it be the jolliest luck if it should -prove to be Jed Warren?”</p> - -<p>The half-breed sniffed contemptuously.</p> - -<p>“He gone, I tell you—never come back.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, forget it,” scoffed Tom. “Sail ahead, -fellows. Bet I’ll get there first.”</p> - -<p>His challenge was not accepted, mainly on -account of the hot and tired ponies, which, as -though anxious to remain under the cooling -shadows, picked their way but slowly down -the incline.</p> - -<p>The nearer they approached the village -the greater became the curiosity and interest -in the picturesque scene before them. The -wide basin was becoming filled with tribesmen; -thin, bluish columns of smoke from -various fires ascended almost vertically in -the air, while further afield, cropping the -grass, sheltered from the blazing sun by the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_64">[64]</span> -hills, were Indian ponies tethered in a long -line.</p> - -<p>“The real thing beats a moving picture -show all hollow,” exclaimed Tom Clifton, his -face glowing with pleasurable anticipation. -“Gee! That redcoat is coming nearer. He’s -on foot, too.”</p> - -<p>“I wonder what a member of the Northwest -Mounted is doing in this Indian lodge?” -drawled Dave.</p> - -<p>“Perhaps he will be kind enough to explain,” -grinned Sam Randall.</p> - -<p>“And if his reasons aren’t mighty good -Tom’ll most likely jump on him hard,” remarked -Larry. “Say, fellows, what wouldn’t -I give for a nice, large ice-cream soda!”</p> - -<p>Tom laughed uproariously.</p> - -<p>“Now I know what’s the matter with you, -Larry,” he cried. “If we could only find a -confectionery shop at every corner I reckon -that glum expression would flit away from -your face.”</p> - -<p>As the last stretch was almost level the -horses took it at a good pace; and, somehow, -the boys could not resist sending off on the -air a series of wild whoops, which, in volume<span class="pagenum" id="Page_65">[65]</span> -of sound, might have rivaled those of the -Crees when they fought against their old-time -enemies.</p> - -<p>At the base of the hill they were so quickly -surrounded that Larry Burnham began to feel -a trifle apprehensive lest such an unceremonious -entrance into the village had offended -these descendants of a warlike race.</p> - -<p>In their fringed garments, quaint ornaments, -and necklaces made of gaudily-colored -beads or animals’ teeth, with a brave here and -there wearing a feather in his hair, they presented -a most picturesque sight. Grizzled old -warriors, young men lithe and sinewy, and -squaws crowding about regarded these white -invaders of their domain intently. But on -none of the coppery-colored faces turned -toward them could any expression of surprise -be detected.</p> - -<p>The jabbering which commenced immediately -had not the slightest meaning to any of -the boys, though it served to show them the -evident mastery of Teddy Banes over the -Cree dialect. And it was not until a tall, -good-looking youth forced his way to the -front that their own voices became of use.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_66">[66]</span>“Me glad to see you,” exclaimed the Indian, -in very good English. “My name -Thunderbolt.”</p> - -<p>“Very happy to meet you, Mr. Thunderbolt,” -drawled Larry.</p> - -<p>“Just the same for me. My grandfather -great chief. Him called Wandering Bear. -You come with me. He see you.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, we’ll be mighty glad to meet the -chief,” said Bob Somers, smilingly. “How -did you learn to speak English?”</p> - -<p>“Oh, I have many fren’s. What you call -him?—cowpunchers and Billy Ashe—he teach -me lots of things.”</p> - -<p>“Who’s Billy Ashe?”</p> - -<p>The intelligent-looking brown-skinned -lad, at this question, immediately swung -himself around, looking earnestly toward -a certain point, and evidently having seen -what he wanted, uttered a grunt of satisfaction.</p> - -<p>“Him,” he said, indicating the trooper in -the scarlet jacket, now approaching with long -strides.</p> - -<p>“So that’s Billy Ashe, is it?” remarked -Dave Brandon.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_67">[67]</span></p> - -<div class="figcenter"><img src="images/p066.jpg" alt="" /></div> -<p class="caption">“HOW DO YOU DO?”</p> - -<p>“Say, Thunderbolt,” broke in Tom Clifton, -eagerly, “do you know Jed Warren?”</p> - -<p>“Sure I know him. Why for you ask?”</p> - -<p>“Because we’re going to try to find him. -You see”—Tom’s hand made a sweep so wide -as to include the entire crowd of lads—“we’re -great friends of his. Came a mighty long -distance to see him, too, only to discover -that——”</p> - -<p>“Well, well—what does all this mean?”</p> - -<p>A voice which showed the possessor to enjoy -unusual lung power brought Tom Clifton’s -sentence to a sudden close.</p> - -<p>The man who wore the uniform of the -Northwest Mounted was surveying the boys -with unfeigned astonishment. His expression -of wonderment seemed to increase each instant, -as his eyes traveled from one to another.</p> - -<p>“How do you do, Mr. Policeman?” greeted -Larry, pleasantly.</p> - -<p>“Great Scott—nothing but kids! Search -me if I ever saw anything to beat it. Where -on earth did you drop from?” asked the -other.</p> - -<p>“We rolled down the hill,” answered Tom -Clifton, upon whose sensibilities the word<span class="pagenum" id="Page_68">[68]</span> -“kids,” and, especially, uttered by one who -did not appear to be so very much older than -themselves, had a most irritating effect.</p> - -<p>“Lost—probably!”</p> - -<p>This incautious remark further increased -Tom’s poor impression of Trooper Billy -Ashe.</p> - -<p>“Lost?” he snorted, his eyes flashing with -indignation. “Well, I rather guess not.”</p> - -<p>“What in the world are you doing here, -then? How did you happen to run into -Teddy Banes?”</p> - -<p>In a few words Bob Somers enlightened the -surprised trooper of the Northwest Mounted -Police; and Tom obligingly added a few words -to the effect that the crowd had no intention -of leaving the country until Jed Warren was -found.</p> - -<p>“Jed Warren!” exclaimed Billy Ashe. -“You won’t find him in the Northwest Territories.”</p> - -<p>“Why not?” asked Bob Somers.</p> - -<p>“Because he’s deserted—that’s why,” answered -Ashe, bluntly.</p> - -<p>“Just the same thing me told ’em,” put in -Teddy Banes. “For sure he gone.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_69">[69]</span>Tom bristled up; his color heightened.</p> - -<p>“And you could say it a hundred times -more, and still I wouldn’t believe such a -thing,” he stormed.</p> - -<p>“Oh, go on!” said the trooper, with an -impatient shrug of his shoulders. He was -plainly not prepossessed in Tom’s favor. -“What do you know about it, I’d like to -ask?”</p> - -<p>“And what do you know about it?” retorted -Tom.</p> - -<p>Billy Ashe’s sun-browned face took on a -peculiar expression. He felt that the uniform -he wore should entitle him to a great deal -more deference than was shown by the six-foot -lad’s manner.</p> - -<p>A loud argument, which the others vainly -tried to stop, ensued; and during this several -cowpunchers were observed to come up and -mingle with the Indians. Tom’s eyes flashed -as he told in a most emphatic manner of their -hope to aid the missing trooper.</p> - -<p>A word from Thunderbolt at last attracted -sufficient attention to change the trend of the -conversation.</p> - -<p>“You come with me,” invited the young<span class="pagenum" id="Page_70">[70]</span> -Indian again. “You see my grandfather—much -great chief.”</p> - -<p>Turning to the surrounding Indians he -addressed them in a sharp, incisive fashion. -Then the groups began to slowly scatter.</p> - -<p>Riding closely behind their guide, who led -the way in and around the numerous teepees, -the lads finally reached the center of the -village.</p> - -<p>“It’s a mighty good thing Indians are tame -nowadays,” remarked Larry to Dave Brandon, -the nearest to him. “I can kind -o’ imagine how prisoners must have felt -when——”</p> - -<p>“My grandfather, Wandering Bear,” came -in the clear, musical voice of Thunderbolt.</p> - -<p>Before the largest and most imposing teepee -the ancient chief, a striking figure in the full -glare of sunlight, stood waiting to receive -them. Wandering Bear, though the oldest -Indian in the lodge, held his herculean proportions -as erect as ever.</p> - -<p>The chief’s long black hair was plentifully -sprinkled with gray, while myriads of wrinkles -seamed his bronze-colored face. A head-dress -of gaudily-colored feathers and various ornaments<span class="pagenum" id="Page_71">[71]</span> -served to add to the stern dignity of his -presence.</p> - -<p>Never before in the history of the Cree -lodge had the Indians received a visit from a -party of boys. But Chief Wandering Bear, -like his tribesmen, did not seem in the least -surprised. Imperturbably, he continued smoking -a long-stemmed sandstone pipe, listened -with attention to Thunderbolt’s explanations, -then inclined his head, saying in grave tones: -“Howdy!”</p> - -<p>“Most delighted to meet you, Mr. Wandering -Bear, I’m sure!” exclaimed Larry.</p> - -<p>The others responded to his salutation -heartily, though in a more serious fashion, -and promptly accepted Thunderbolt’s invitation -to dismount. The horses were then given -in charge of several young Indians, who led -them into the pasture-land by the hills.</p> - -<p>The chief shook each of his visitors by the -hand.</p> - -<p>“Yes, I speak the tongue of the white man,” -he said, in answer to a question from Bob -Somers. “Not many year from now the Indian -tongue shall have passed away. This -year, so many less braves; next year, so many<span class="pagenum" id="Page_72">[72]</span> -less.” He shook his head sadly. “The white -man always bigger—stronger. But soon the -Indian he see no more.”</p> - -<p>All felt impressed by the pathos of the old -warrior’s words and manner.</p> - -<p>“Come inside teepee,” commanded Thunderbolt. -“Outside too hot.”</p> - -<p>The interior they found a great deal more -commodious than any had expected. None -of the Indians attempted to follow the party, -which included the half-breed and Billy Ashe, -though several of the younger braves lingered -near the entrance.</p> - -<p>“This is certainly great,” pronounced Dave -Brandon, promptly seating himself upon the -ground.</p> - -<p>“You bet,” agreed Larry, wiping his perspiring -face.</p> - -<p>The yellowish, translucent sides of the -teepee allowed a soft dim light to pervade their -surroundings, while through the partly-open -flap came a glistening ray from out-of-doors.</p> - -<p>Wandering Bear drew up a low stool in the -center, the group forming a semicircle about -him. Even Larry Burnham began to enjoy -the novel experience. From the outside came<span class="pagenum" id="Page_73">[73]</span> -a murmur of guttural voices, or the occasional -sound of moccasined feet passing to and fro.</p> - -<p>Although Thunderbolt displayed the usual -stolidity of his race he nevertheless began to -ply the boys with questions.</p> - -<p>“Ah, you come here to hunt and fish,” he -exclaimed. “Fine! You take me for guide, -maybe. Me good guide; know all country. -You shoot big game; catch plenty fish—what -you say?”</p> - -<p>“I should say it’s a capital idea,” said Dave, -stifling a yawn; “eh, Larry?”</p> - -<p>“Yes; it may save you chaps a heap o’ -trouble,” drawled the blond lad, with a peculiar -grin.</p> - -<p>“But we don’t intend to do any hunting or -fishing, Thunderbolt, until this Jed Warren -affair is cleared up,” put in Tom.</p> - -<p>“Then you might as well pack up and go -home,” declared Billy Ashe, bluntly. “Jed -Warren is gone. He won’t come back, either—depend -upon that. I’ve been working on -the case, and am in a good position to know. -Did Sergeant Erskine tell you what we’ve -learned?”</p> - -<p>“Yes,” answered Tom, shortly.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_74">[74]</span>“And still you don’t believe it?”</p> - -<p>“No!” cried Tom, with almost a touch of -anger in his voice. “Jed Warren wouldn’t -have deserted if a whole army of smugglers -and cattle rustlers had been hot on his trail.”</p> - -<p>“I like to see a fellow stick up for his -friends,” commented the trooper. “But there’s -no sense in dodging facts.”</p> - -<p>“For sure,” put in Teddy Banes. “Him -one big fool to think he find Warren. Many -times I tell him so; but always he shakes his -head.”</p> - -<p>“And I’ll shake it some more,” cried Tom, -highly indignant.</p> - -<p>“Don’t carry your quarrels into Indian -teepees, Tom,” advised Larry. “You mustn’t -mislay your manners.”</p> - -<p>“White boys look strong as Indian brave,” -remarked Wandering Bear. “Plenty big, -you,” he added, turning toward Larry Burnham, -whose huge form seemed to appear even -larger in the dim light.</p> - -<p>“Yes,” grinned Larry. “An’ a ‘promising -football player’ ought to be, I s’pose; but not -quite so large as you, Mr. Wandering Bear.”</p> - -<p>The chief nodded gravely.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_75">[75]</span>“I am old now,” he said—“very old. But -at your age no one so strong as I; no one so -quick, or shoot so straight.” He sighed. -“Now the muscle is weak; the eye is dim; -the hand trembles.”</p> - -<p>“Git out! You’re more active than many -a man of half your age,” laughed Billy Ashe. -He turned toward the boys. “Take my advice: -hire Thunderbolt as a guide. Have a -good time, and forget a fellow who once wore -a scarlet coat and was cowardly enough to desert.”</p> - -<p>Tom jumped to his feet, his face flushed -and excited.</p> - -<p>“I’ll bet there never was a braver policeman -among the Northwest Mounted!” he -exclaimed, in a voice which fairly rang -through the teepee. “Jed a coward! Well, -I guess you haven’t anything on him when -it comes to courage, Mr. Billy Ashe.”</p> - -<p>“Cut it out, Tom,” advised Bob Somers.</p> - -<p>“Too much excitement is bad for the -nerves,” grinned Larry.</p> - -<p>Ashe rose to face the angry Rambler.</p> - -<p>“It strikes me you’ve got a pretty flip -tongue for a youngster,” he said, slowly.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_76">[76]</span> -“Better learn to curb it before you get in a -mix-up with some one who is liable to mislay -his manners.”</p> - -<p>Larry Burnham’s loud chuckle added to -Tom’s feelings of hot resentment, although a -glance from Dave Brandon was sufficient to -check an angry reply.</p> - -<p>“Are you going to stay in the village -long?” asked Sam Randall.</p> - -<p>“No; I’m on a ‘special,’” answered Ashe. -And being a young trooper he spoke with an -air of some importance.</p> - -<p>“Hope you’ll succeed,” said Dick Travers, -“and won’t get mixed up with any of those -dangerous characters Teddy Banes has been -telling us about.”</p> - -<p>“Smugglers,” laughed Tom—“those awful -chaps who scared Jed Warren away!”</p> - -<p>“Many time Warren come here,” said -Thunderbolt. “Much good man.”</p> - -<p>Chief Wandering Bear, puffing away on his -pipe with mechanical precision, nodded assent.</p> - -<p>“Yes—a strong man,” he said. “He rides -like Indian; Indian likes him.”</p> - -<p>“Sure,” agreed Thunderbolt. “Last time<span class="pagenum" id="Page_77">[77]</span> -me see him he say: ‘Thunderbolt, I go to -Fool’s Castle, and——’”</p> - -<p>“Sergeant Erskine told me something -about Fool’s Castle,” broke in Bob. “In -which direction is it?”</p> - -<p>“Fool’s Castle!” echoed Tom Clifton. -“What in thunder is that?”</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_78">[78]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER VI<br /> - -<span class="small">BILLY ASHE</span></h2> -</div> - -<p>“<span class="smcap">It’s</span> an old deserted ranch-house,” explained -Ashe, “close to a ridge of hills. A -good many years ago a man named Walt -Allen and his two sons built it. He was a -man with plenty of money—had traveled all -over the continent, and picked up a whole lot -of queer ideas—at least everybody around -here thought so.”</p> - -<p>“What like?” asked Dave, interestedly.</p> - -<p>“Oh, artistic. Wanted style to his ranch-house, -he said; and, would you believe it, he -stuck up a lot of columns in front of the door. -They make you think of an entrance to some -old Greek temple.”</p> - -<p>“He must have been odd,” murmured -Larry Burnham.</p> - -<p>“Yes,” added Thunderbolt. “Cost much -money. No good. Peoples laugh.”</p> - -<p>“Ah, much laugh!” supplemented Wandering -Bear, slowly nodding his head.</p> - -<p>“A man often has to pay a big price for<span class="pagenum" id="Page_79">[79]</span> -being a little out of the ordinary,” sighed -Dave Brandon. “What else did Mr. Allen -do to make people give his place such a curious -name?”</p> - -<p>“Put ribbons around the cattle’s necks, I -s’pose,” grinned Larry.</p> - -<p>“Or maybe had an ice-cream soda factory in -his yard,” chuckled Tom.</p> - -<p>“Something pretty near as bad,” laughed -Billy Ashe. “He built a high stockade around -his ranch-house, and stuck up inside a lot of -old statues he’d brought over from Italy.”</p> - -<p>“I’d like to have known him,” said Dave, -reflectively.</p> - -<p>“Most of ’em looked as if they’d been in an -awful scrimmage with cattle rustlers, for -either an arm or a leg was missing, or perhaps -a nose or an ear busted.”</p> - -<p>“He no have sense,” grumbled the half-breed.</p> - -<p>“Ah! Much queer,” said Wandering Bear.</p> - -<p>“Then he planted fir and cedars about, -and, in one corner, built the prettiest little -temple you ever saw.”</p> - -<p>“Any more counts in the indictment?” -laughed Bob.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_80">[80]</span>“Yes,” answered the trooper. “He got -some artist to come all the way from Winnipeg -to paint pictures on his ceilings and walls.”</p> - -<p>“He must have been a very delightful person,” -said Dave.</p> - -<p>“What became of this ‘delightful person’?” -drawled Larry.</p> - -<p>“In those days there was a great deal more -lawlessness than now,” answered the trooper. -“The cattle rustlers evidently thought Allen -must be an easy mark, so they paid particular -attention to his stock. This kept on until -the Allens got so disgusted they took everything -of value from the ranch-house and left. -So, ever since, the place has been known as -Fool’s Castle.”</p> - -<p>“Anybody else ever live there afterward?” -asked Sam Randall.</p> - -<p>“No. One wing of the building was struck -by lightning and partly burned.”</p> - -<p>“Lots of history for one house,” remarked -Dick Travers.</p> - -<p>“Some of the cowpunchers”—Billy Ashe -sniffed contemptuously—“got an idea there’s -something queer about the old place.”</p> - -<p>“Gee!” exclaimed Tom.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_81">[81]</span>“Yes, it’s a fact; an’ most of ’em are wary -of stoppin’ there.”</p> - -<p>“Me no afraid,” said Thunderbolt. He -turned to Bob Somers. “You go there?”</p> - -<p>“Yes,” answered Bob, “with you as guide.”</p> - -<p>“Thunderbolt much good guide,” said -Wandering Bear, his stern eyes resting fondly -on his grandson. “Always he fear nothing. -See?”—he pointed to the massive antlers of -a moose resting close by—“Thunderbolt kill -him.”</p> - -<p>“Ah! The Rambler Club has a rival!” -laughed Larry.</p> - -<p>“I’ll be leaving in about an hour or two,” -Ashe was saying, “so it isn’t likely I’ll see -you chaps again unless you find your way -back to the post.”</p> - -<p>“We’ll get there all right,” said Tom Clifton, -confidently.</p> - -<p>“About how many men are there in the -service of the Northwest Mounted?” inquired -Dave.</p> - -<p>“Not far from seven hundred,” answered -Ashe. “Saskatchewan has the most; Alberta -comes second, while the rest are divided between -Manitoba, Yukon and the Territories.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_82">[82]</span>“Have lots of work to do?”</p> - -<p>“We always manage to earn our pay. The -boys even patrol mining camps; and, believe -me, some of ’em are in pretty out-of-the-way -places.”</p> - -<p>“The work must be awful in winter,” remarked -Larry Burnham.</p> - -<p>“It’s no easy snap,” admitted Ashe. “With -a blizzard howling about you, and perhaps a -pack of fierce, hungry coyotes on your trail, -only a man with a good stout heart could -stand it.”</p> - -<p>“I’d rather brave the dangers of a football -game,” said Dave.</p> - -<p>“Or umpire a series of rushes between freshmen -and sophomores,” grinned Tom.</p> - -<p>“Maybe, after a while, I be scout for policeman -like Teddy Banes,” said Thunderbolt. -“You like work for the police, Banes?”</p> - -<p>“Sure,” answered the half-breed, surlily.</p> - -<p>“And Teddy is a mighty good hand at the -business,” commented Ashe.</p> - -<p>“You stay—eat with Indian?” asked Wandering -Bear, suddenly.</p> - -<p>The crowd accepted the invitation with enthusiasm, -and heartily thanked the aged chief.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_83">[83]</span>They asked many questions concerning the -life of the tribesmen, and learned interesting -details about their mode of hunting and fishing. -Some of the tales were quite thrilling, -too. The tragic end of the old bull moose -whose antlers lay in the teepee was related by -Thunderbolt in his quaint English with pleasing -effect.</p> - -<p>Then the Ramblers told of their own experiences, -Tom Clifton having a great deal to -say, while a rather sarcastic smile played about -Larry Burnham’s mouth.</p> - -<p>When the sun had sunk beneath the -horizon, leaving as a reminder of its presence -flashes of gold and purple on the few clouds -which hovered lazily above, preparations for -supper were made.</p> - -<p>The cooking was done on a bed of live coals -in front of the wigwam. Even Larry thoroughly -enjoyed the fried pork, roast potatoes -and baked fish. And, besides all this, Thunderbolt -passed around corn cakes and plenty -of tea.</p> - -<p>As the grayness of dusk deepened the lights -of the various fires threw a rosy glow over the -teepees and redskins. The forms of the hills<span class="pagenum" id="Page_84">[84]</span> -slowly became lost, until only the topmost -branches of the trees, outlining themselves -weirdly against the sky, could be distinguished -in the black, somber masses. Finally -they, too, disappeared in an impenetrable -darkness which settled over the great basin.</p> - -<p>The guttural voices of unseen Indians came -over the air; sometimes a horse whinnied, or -a bird flying overhead, or in the timbered -reaches, uttered a note which seemed to carry -with remarkable clearness.</p> - -<p>“Gee! I never knew it could be so black -out-of-doors,” said Larry.</p> - -<p>“I’ve seen it blacker than this,” returned -Tom Clifton.</p> - -<p>“Oh, of course we know that,” drawled -Larry. “But I’ll bet a white horse would -look like a spot of ink to-night.”</p> - -<p>Soon after supper was over Billy Ashe rose -to his feet.</p> - -<p>“I must be off, boys,” he said.</p> - -<p>“What! Going to police barracks now?” -asked Larry, in astonishment. “How can -you find your way?”</p> - -<p>“No; I’m not bound in that direction,” -answered the trooper, with a returning touch<span class="pagenum" id="Page_85">[85]</span> -of importance. “I can steer myself well -enough by the stars and compass—eh, Wandering -Bear?”</p> - -<p>The chief, whose shadow was thrown fantastically -over the sides of the wigwam, nodded.</p> - -<p>“Yes,” he said. “The white man much -good. But never so good as Indian, who has -the eyes of the eagle, the scent of the coyote, -and the hearing of the hare.”</p> - -<p>“I sort o’ think they must have it down -pretty fine,” said Larry.</p> - -<p>Billy Ashe shook hands all around; he -even slapped Tom Clifton on the shoulder, although -still a trifle nettled at some of his remarks.</p> - -<p>“I guess, son, by this time,” he said, -“you’ve got rid of that foolish notion about -Jed Warren, eh?”</p> - -<p>“Foolish notion!” cried Tom, indignantly. -“I never had any.”</p> - -<p>“Of course he hadn’t,” said Larry, satirically. -“If he doesn’t discover that missing -trooper by the aid of the sun, the moon and -the twinkling stars, I won’t get an ice-cream -soda at the very first town I reach.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_86">[86]</span>With a merry laugh, Billy Ashe strode -away.</p> - -<p>“So-long, fellows,” he called. “Hope -you’ll have a good time.”</p> - -<p>“Some chaps are awful stubborn,” complained -Tom. “Honest—I don’t believe -they’d change their ideas even if you could -prove ’em to be in the wrong.”</p> - -<p>The fit of laughter which seized Larry at -this statement made Wandering Bear and his -grandson regard him with mild surprise.</p> - -<p>“Come,” invited Thunderbolt. “I show -you village.”</p> - -<p>Leaving Wandering Bear calmly puffing -away on his long-stemmed pipe and Teddy -Banes sitting motionless with his back resting -against the teepee, the lads promptly followed -the young Indian.</p> - -<p>It was a very novel sensation to the big -blond lad to find himself wandering about a -real Indian village. And the picturesque -groups of red men sitting around the fires, -with the ruddy glow over their blanketed -forms, or moving here and there, now caught -by the beams of light, then disappearing in -the shadows, interested him about as much as<span class="pagenum" id="Page_87">[87]</span> -anything could, considering his state of mind -and aching bones.</p> - -<p>Before one teepee Thunderbolt stopped to -introduce the boys to Sulking Wolf, whose -stock of English consisted of three words: -“How you do!”</p> - -<p>“Very well, thank you,” said Larry. “It’s -an awful dark night, isn’t it?”</p> - -<p>“How you do!” answered Sulking Wolf, -gravely.</p> - -<p>“Listen!” cried Tom.</p> - -<p>The sound of hoof-beats coming from their -left had attracted his attention.</p> - -<p>“Billy Ashe go now,” exclaimed Thunderbolt.</p> - -<p>“He seems to have plenty of nerve,” remarked -Larry, reflectively. A rather shivery -sensation stole through him as he thought of -the lonely ride which must be before the -trooper in the gloom and silence of the -prairie.</p> - -<p>“Oh, it’s all in getting used to it,” said -Tom.</p> - -<p>“Of course,” returned Larry, wearily.</p> - -<p>“I’d like to stay here for a week,” remarked -Dave Brandon. “There is something so cozy<span class="pagenum" id="Page_88">[88]</span> -about these Indian teepees. And to sit beside -a bed of glowing coals and look at the starry -sky——”</p> - -<p>“Help!” laughed Larry. “It’s been too -much for him.”</p> - -<p>“And to feel an inspiration for a poem -steadily growing is certainly——”</p> - -<p>“Delightful—if it never appears in the -Kingswood High School ‘Reflector.’”</p> - -<p>“I can sympathize with Mr. Walt Allen,” -sighed Dave, somewhat irrelevantly.</p> - -<p>At the extreme edge of the village, not far -from the break in the hills, the party encountered -several dogs whose vociferous barking -and angry snarls made Larry Burnham step -back in alarm. The dim forms whisking -around so close at hand caused him to fear -that at any moment the brutes might spring -upon him.</p> - -<p>“Great Scott; they seem to be as big as -wolves, and as dangerous!” he cried.</p> - -<p>“Oh, if you’d ever seen the real articles you -wouldn’t talk that way,” exclaimed Tom.</p> - -<p>“Dog no hurt,” said Thunderbolt, reassuringly.</p> - -<p>He spoke sharply to the skulking animals,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_89">[89]</span> -and by a threatening movement of his foot -caused them to retire.</p> - -<p>At last, beyond the confines of the village, -the lads turned to look back at the collection -of wigwams. Here and there some were -brought out clearly by the flickering campfires; -others rose spectrally, scarcely seen -amidst their surroundings, while many were -completely enveloped in the gloom.</p> - -<p>Above the forbidding amphitheater of hills -the stars and constellations shone with singular -brilliancy.</p> - -<p>“Hold a match for me, Bob,” cried Dave, -suddenly. “I’ve got that inspiration for a -poem. I’ll scribble it off in a jiffy.”</p> - -<p>Amid the laughter of the others, Bob -obligingly complied.</p> - -<p>“Are we ever going to read it?” asked -Larry.</p> - -<p>“That remains to be seen,” answered Dave.</p> - -<p>“It never will be, I reckon,” returned -Larry, with a laugh.</p> - -<p>Having visited all the points of interest they -sauntered slowly back to the chief’s teepee, -where they found Wandering Bear and the -half-breed sitting in exactly the same positions.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_90">[90]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER VII<br /> - -<span class="small">THE FIRST CAMP</span></h2> -</div> - -<p>“<span class="smcap">White</span> man and Indian are brothers,” -remarked Wandering Bear, solemnly, on the -following morning. “Indian always friend -of white man. White man give him much -presents; Indian show him big game; where -fish is plenty. Yes, always much friend -now.”</p> - -<p>Breakfast was over. The crowd, with the -exception of Larry, to whom the situation was -so novel as to prevent him from sleeping with -any degree of soundness, had spent a comfortable -night.</p> - -<p>To Tom Clifton’s great satisfaction, Teddy -Banes announced his intention of remaining -at the Cree village.</p> - -<p>“Good! That old sour-face would be -enough to take all the fun out of the trip,” -said the aspirant for football honors. “Acts -awful queer, doesn’t he?”</p> - -<p>“At times he did hand out a few awful<span class="pagenum" id="Page_91">[91]</span> -knocks, if that’s what you mean,” grinned -Larry.</p> - -<p>He glanced at the sky, in the vast expanse -of which not a fleck of cloud could be seen. -Every indication pointed to another sunny, -sizzling day; and, anticipating the discomfort -before him, the lad made a wry face.</p> - -<p>“What’s up?” demanded Tom.</p> - -<p>“I am,” responded Larry, rising to his feet. -“Isn’t it time to skip?”</p> - -<p>“Yes! Fool’s Castle is a long way from -here,” said Bob. “We shan’t reach it even -to-night, eh, Thunderbolt?”</p> - -<p>“To-morrow,” answered the young Indian.</p> - -<p>“But for stern duty,” remarked Dave, “I’d -refuse to leave the delightful shade of these -hills.”</p> - -<p>At Thunderbolt’s direction several young -braves departed for the horses, soon leading -them up to the teepee. They had been well -fed and cared for, so were in a mettlesome -mood. A mass of tribesmen gathered around -as Wandering Bear bade them a stately adieu.</p> - -<p>“White man come again,” he invited. -“Always welcome.”</p> - -<p>“How you do,” said Sulking Wolf, shaking<span class="pagenum" id="Page_92">[92]</span> -hands with each. And, as they sprang into -the saddle and started off, they heard him -utter the same words as a parting salutation.</p> - -<p>Thunderbolt, mounted on a brown-patched -nag, led the advance.</p> - -<p>Soon after passing the break in the rugged -hills they reached a narrow stream which -rippled and bubbled and sang its way over a -rocky bed.</p> - -<p>“We go across,” announced the Indian.</p> - -<p>“It looks jolly inviting,” said Larry. “If -I could find any excuse I’d fall off my horse -and take a swim.”</p> - -<p>“Did you ever think how curious a fish’s -life must be?” began Dave.</p> - -<p>“No! But I’ve often thought how curious -the Rambler Club’s life must be,” grinned -Larry.</p> - -<p>The cool, clear water splashed over stirrup -leathers, while the hoofs of the ponies scattered -showers of shining drops.</p> - -<p>Crossing the marshy strip of shore, with the -imprints of many longhorns’ hoofs upon it, -they struck off in a westerly direction.</p> - -<p>The further they progressed the more -Larry Burnham became convinced of the silliness<span class="pagenum" id="Page_93">[93]</span> -of the whole proceeding. Frequently, -when the pace was not too great, he was observed -to take a folder from his pocket and -scan it intently.</p> - -<p>“Wonder what that chap’s doing?” remarked -Tom Clifton to Dick Travers on one -occasion.</p> - -<p>“Ask him,” laughed Dick.</p> - -<p>“And get some kind of mean answer?” -snapped Tom. “No—I don’t think. But I’ll -find out, just the same.”</p> - -<p>At noon a halt for lunch was made in a little -patch of timber, and upon resuming the -march the seven lads pushed steadily ahead, -at long intervals skirting around or crossing -ranges of hills, and seeing on many occasions -great herds of grazing cattle.</p> - -<p>“Where are we going to stop, Thunderbolt?” -asked Dave, when it came time to look -for another camping ground.</p> - -<p>The young Indian pointed to a patch of -woods in the distance.</p> - -<p>“Good place,” he announced. “Water. -White boys much pleased. Thunderbolt know -all good places.”</p> - -<p>“Well, there’s one lucky thing,” mused<span class="pagenum" id="Page_94">[94]</span> -Larry to himself. “As far as I can make out, -this jaunt has taken me in just the right direction. -I wonder if the fellows will be mad? -But what in thunder do I care if they are?”</p> - -<p>As their guide had said the timber seemed -to be a most excellent place for a camp. -There were plenty of fragrant balsam boughs -for couches, all the fire-wood necessary, and a -tiny creeklet flowing through the center.</p> - -<p>“Simply jim dandy!” cried Tom, enthusiastically. -“Everything we need—except ice-cream -sodas. How about it, little ‘Fear-not’?”</p> - -<p>Larry, feeling that his tribulations were almost -over, grinned.</p> - -<p>“It’s perfectly lovely, Tom,” he said. “I -don’t know what kind of an insect bit me on -the cheek just now, but I’ll bet they have an -enthusiastic reception committee waiting to -receive us.”</p> - -<p>“Don’t forget I carry with me all sorts of -medical stuff,” said Tom.</p> - -<p>“For instance?”</p> - -<p>“The first aid to the injured kind.”</p> - -<p>“Try to use any o’ it on me, an’ there’ll be -a scrap,” snickered Larry.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_95">[95]</span>Dismounting, the boys led their ponies -through the woods, coming to a stop in a -small, grassy clearing.</p> - -<p>“Couldn’t be better,” exclaimed Bob. -“Pitch in, fellows; we’ll have a camp made -in a jiffy.”</p> - -<p>Setting the example, he quickly unsaddled -his tired horse, whose shaggy sides were -flecked with foam. Then, tethering the animal -to a near-by sapling, he drew a hatchet -from his belt.</p> - -<p>“We’ll need lots of fire-wood,” he said.</p> - -<p>“I’ll help you cut some,” announced Tom.</p> - -<p>“Me too,” said Thunderbolt.</p> - -<p>“My job will be getting the water, and -things ready to cook,” declared Dick Travers. -“It’s your turn to-night, Tom, to play chef.”</p> - -<p>“Guess I’ll gather a whole lot of balsam -boughs for beds,” supplemented Sam Randall.</p> - -<p>After the horses had been cared for Dave -Brandon, on looking around, discovered a spot -which promised to afford a delightful resting -place; and, in order to see if his ideas were -correct, promptly tested it.</p> - -<p>The result proved highly satisfactory.</p> - -<p>Seeing this, the tired, hot and dusty Larry<span class="pagenum" id="Page_96">[96]</span> -Burnham, after washing his face and hands -in the creek, and satisfying his thirst with the -fresh, cool water, sauntered back to the glade -and imitated Dave with considerable success.</p> - -<p>There was no doubt that the blond lad, as -Tom often declared, lacked get up and go. -He had everything in him to make a great -success but the willingness to hustle. His -laziness differed from Dave’s; for while the -former editor of the High School “Reflector” -often indulged in periods of rest, it was more -in order to allow his mental faculties full play. -Then, too, Dave could be very strenuous and -determined when anything called for such an -effort.</p> - -<p>And no one had ever seen Larry Burnham -either active or strenuous, although he was -generally known to be determined—to exert -himself as little as possible on all occasions.</p> - -<p>Presently the noise of the hatchets stopped, -and Tom Clifton, bearing in his arms an -enormous quantity of brush and wood, was -seen approaching. He threw his burden -down on the grass, then began to eye Larry -sternly.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_97">[97]</span>“What are you sitting there for?” he -demanded.</p> - -<p>“Resting, thank you, Mr. Clifton,” responded -Larry, sweetly.</p> - -<p>“You’re a nice one, I must say.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, as fellows go, I suppose I must be -pretty nice,” chirped Larry.</p> - -<p>“Why in thunder don’t you get up and -hustle like the rest of us?”</p> - -<p>“There’s no use in everybody working.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, there isn’t, eh? Well, that’s a good -one! There’s plenty for a chap to do if he -only wants to look for it. Come—get up, -Larry. Start the fire going.”</p> - -<p>“No, thanks,” drawled Larry, with a shake -of his head. “Don’t think Dick Travers’d -like it.” His eyes began to twinkle. “When -Dick gets all the kindlings together I won’t -mind puttin’ a match to ’em.”</p> - -<p>“You haven’t done a blessed thing since -you’ve been with us,” stormed Tom. “You’re -always sitting around waiting for grub to be -served.”</p> - -<p>“Mercy! Just listen to the boss!”</p> - -<p>“It makes me tired. On a camping-out -trip the work ought to be divided equally.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_98">[98]</span> -Be sensible, Larry. I’m willing to do my -share, but I want to see every other chap do -his.”</p> - -<p>“Don’t waste so much time, Tom. Talk to -Dave. He’s loafin’.”</p> - -<p>“Aren’t you going to give us a hand -then?”</p> - -<p>“I sort o’ think it isn’t worth while.”</p> - -<p>“You’re lazy, Larry Burnham!” cried -Tom, hotly. “A fine football player you’ll -make if you don’t wake up and put a little -ginger into that big form of yours.”</p> - -<p>“Softly—softly, Tom!” laughed Dave.</p> - -<p>“I’ve been talking to a big softy, I -know,” growled Tom, thoroughly disgusted, -“and——”</p> - -<p>“Hold on!” interrupted Larry. His anger -began to rise. “Fire off a little more talk -like that, an’ I’ll tell you what I think of -you.”</p> - -<p>“Go ahead, then!” snapped Tom.</p> - -<p>“For goodness’ sake, fellows, cut it all out,” -put in Dave. “I’ll prescribe a good supper -and a couple of hours rest——”</p> - -<p>“Don’t be afraid, Larry,” persisted Tom.</p> - -<p>“Afraid of what?” jeered Larry—“you?<span class="pagenum" id="Page_99">[99]</span> -See here, Tom Clifton”—the big fellow rose -to his feet—“believe me, I’m tired of your -always pitchin’ into me. Do you understand?”</p> - -<p>“I should worry,” said Tom. “The idea -of your talking like that after all the mean -things you’ve said about the Rambler Club! -Didn’t you nearly die with laughter when that -idiot of a Teddy Banes made silly remarks? -Oh, no!” The color mounted to his face. -“I’ve been thinking about it ever since.”</p> - -<p>“I don’t sport a chip on my shoulder, but -I’ll take just so much an’ no more!” exclaimed -the blond lad.</p> - -<p>His belligerent attitude and the look which -came into his mild blue eyes quite astounded -Tom Clifton. Here was a chap whom he -sometimes thought belonged in the overgrown -baby class actually threatening a member of -the Rambler Club. To retreat would never -do.</p> - -<p>“Are you going to start a scrap?”</p> - -<p>For a few seconds the two tall boys, but a -few paces apart, eyed each other so angrily -that the “historian” felt compelled to literally -step into the breach.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_100">[100]</span>“That will do, fellows,” he said, quietly.</p> - -<p>“He needn’t think I’m afraid of him!” -cried Tom.</p> - -<p>Dave gently urged him away.</p> - -<p>Thereupon Clifton, with a snort of disgust, -seized a water pail and went off toward the -creek. Larry then resumed his former position.</p> - -<p>“A conceited dub!” he remarked, kicking -lazily at the turf.</p> - -<p>“No,” answered Dave; “Tom really isn’t -conceited. He’s simply terribly in earnest.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, I don’t know!” growled Larry.</p> - -<p>The stout boy smiled.</p> - -<p>“I’ll admit that sometimes he’s a little too -free in expressing his opinions; but he’s fair -and square as a chap can be. You’re lazy, -Larry—so am I.” He ended the sentence -with a good-natured laugh.</p> - -<p>By this time the workers were coming back. -Enough wood had been gathered for the entire -night, and a sufficient quantity of balsam -boughs for the beds was only waiting to be -dragged into the glade.</p> - -<p>Whistling cheerily, Dick Travers returned -with pails of water, closely followed by Tom.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_101">[101]</span>“Say, Dave, would you believe it,” remarked -the former, “there’s a big bunch of -longhorns grazing on the other side of these -woods. Some of them have just crossed the -creek a bit further down.”</p> - -<p>“Gee!” exclaimed Larry. “Suppose they -should come upon us while we’re asleep!”</p> - -<p>Feeling sorry he had given way to his temper, -he addressed this remark to Tom. Tom, -however, preserved an icy silence.</p> - -<p>“Cattle no hurt,” said Thunderbolt, reassuringly.</p> - -<p>The meal was prepared in a surprisingly short -time. Luscious slices of bacon sizzled away -in the frying-pan; potatoes were baking on -red-hot embers; while coffee-pots sent up -clouds of hissing steam. Then there were -crackers and cheese and preserves.</p> - -<p>Any boy who could not have enjoyed the -“spread” which Chef Tom Clifton prepared -would have been in a pretty poor condition.</p> - -<p>But every boy did enjoy it, even though -the insects, both flying and crawling, persisted -in making themselves unduly conspicuous.</p> - -<p>Thunderbolt proved a most agreeable guide -and companion. He related stories, told them<span class="pagenum" id="Page_102">[102]</span> -secrets of woodcraft which even Tom admitted -he had not heard before, and helped to drag -the balsam boughs into the glade and arrange -them in neat, smooth piles.</p> - -<p>“He’s a crackerjack,” laughed Sam Randall. -“After this, don’t let anybody talk to me -about lazy Indians.”</p> - -<p>“Thunderbolt certainly isn’t one,” said -Tom, with strong emphasis.</p> - -<p>When preparations for the night’s rest were -finished the fire was sending a wide circle of -dancing light over the darkening woods. -And in this little oasis of light amidst a vast -desert of gloom the boys sat, often conjecturing -about Jed Warren’s strange disappearance.</p> - -<p>“I’m going to turn in,” remarked Dave, -finally.</p> - -<p>“I think we’d better all do the same,” said -Bob. “We want to make an early start for -Fool’s Castle to-morrow morning.”</p> - -<p>Thereupon the crowd unstrapped their -blankets and betook themselves to the fragrant -balsam boughs—that is, all except Sam -Randall, whose duty it was to stand first -watch.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_103">[103]</span>“And don’t you dare to wake me up a minute -before time, Sam,” warned Dave, laughingly.</p> - -<p>So the lone sentinel began pacing to and -fro. The occasional comments from the recumbent -forms ceased, and the soft pat, pat of -Sam Randall’s feet, the never-ceasing rustling -of grass and leaves, and the noises made by -the horses moving about were the sounds -which reigned supreme.</p> - -<p>Sam was too “seasoned a veteran” to -have his emotions stirred. Mechanically, he -watched the light flashing over tree trunks, -tinging deep recesses with its ruddy glow, and -the smoke rising high and drifting slowly out -of view.</p> - -<p>Every now and again he replenished the -fire, until the flames shot up, and crackling -sparks, like a miniature fire display, dropped -about him.</p> - -<p>His lonely vigil neared an end.</p> - -<p>“Poor old Dave,” he reflected, glancing at -the round face of the sleeping “historian.” -“I almost hate to do it.”</p> - -<p>He was about stepping over to awaken him -when a series of blood-curdling yells from a<span class="pagenum" id="Page_104">[104]</span> -point not far distant, followed by the sharp -cracking of pistol shots, gave him the start of -his life.</p> - -<p>Then came the neighs of frightened horses, -the stamping of hoofs, and the sound of a -heavy crashing through the underbrush.</p> - -<p>Before the astounded Sam Randall had -time to even voice a warning the camp was -astir.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_105">[105]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER VIII<br /> - -<span class="small">THE STAMPEDE</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">Bob Somers</span> was the first to spring to his -feet.</p> - -<p>“Good gracious! What’s the matter?” he -yelled.</p> - -<p>“What—what—what——” began Larry -Burnham, frantically throwing aside his enfolding -blanket.</p> - -<p>“Who’s that shooting?” cried Tom.</p> - -<p>Thunderbolt alone made no comment, but -sprang toward the darkness, while the others, -with wide, staring eyes, sought to penetrate -its mysteries. And as they stood there, with -every feeling of sleepiness entirely gone, the -same awe-inspiring cries and cracking of a -pistol began again.</p> - -<p>“Fall flat on your faces! Get back of a -tree!” yelled Larry, in terror. “It must be -cattle rustlers or smugglers.”</p> - -<p>He was about to follow his own advice -when the heavy crashing in the woods, which<span class="pagenum" id="Page_106">[106]</span> -at no time had ceased, broke forth with renewed -violence.</p> - -<p>Several huge, indistinct forms were seen -making toward the fire. Larry, for an instant -too startled to move, uttered a piercing -yell.</p> - -<p>“Save yourselves!” he called out frantically.</p> - -<p>Then, breaking the spell which had seemed -to hold him fast, he made a wild dash for -safety.</p> - -<p>“The cattle are stampeding, fellows!” -shouted Bob Somers.</p> - -<p>There was no time, in that moment of confusion -and alarm, for any concerted action. -Each lad was compelled to depend entirely -upon himself.</p> - -<p>As a herd of terrified longhorns bore directly -down upon them the alarmed campers -flew in all directions. The sound of pounding -hoofs, carrying to their senses the imminence -of the peril, made them put forth every -exertion to get beyond the animals’ path.</p> - -<p>“Great Scott!” breathed Bob Somers.</p> - -<p>He had crossed the glade and become entangled -in a thick mass of underbrush on the -opposite side.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_107">[107]</span>Several of the fleeing longhorns were almost -upon him. Desperately he shot a glance over -his shoulder, to see the ponderous bodies -faintly brought into view by the firelight.</p> - -<p>A hoarse bellow seemed to sound almost in -his very ears. He heard several of his companions -utter wild yells; but he himself, even -in the excitement of the moment, remained -silent, using every faculty at his command to -escape the danger.</p> - -<p>Now it was impossible to see a yard in advance. -He was in the woods, groping, blindly -pushing through, stumbling and tripping; now -bringing up against a tree; then impeded by -the brush. And at every step of the way he -appeared to be directly in the track of the -stampeding cattle.</p> - -<p>Bob Somers’ heart was beating fast. Every -moment he expected to feel the impact of a -frightened steer, and every moment he realized -the hopelessness of getting outside the -zone of the animals’ flight.</p> - -<p>Suddenly a low-hanging branch swept him -off his feet. Sprawling on the ground he felt -a thrill like an electric shock. Then, with a -supreme effort, he dragged himself behind the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_108">[108]</span> -trunk, stood erect, and pressed his form hard—painfully -hard—against it.</p> - -<p>The heavy hoof-beats were crashing by on -either side. Trembling with excitement, and -breathing hard, he passed a few tense moments, -in the midst of which the fierce yells -and pistol shots sounded for a third time.</p> - -<p>Almost surprised to find himself unharmed, -the Rambler listened, first with added fear—then -thankfulness, as they abruptly ended, -and the last steer floundered by.</p> - -<p>For a moment he remained motionless. -Now that danger was over the adventure left -a curious feeling of unreality. The camp-fire -had entirely disappeared; the darkness was -so intense as to make it impossible to determine -in which direction he had come. Both -hands and face were smarting. Then, as a -reminder of the violent impact of the branch, -his shoulder ached dully.</p> - -<p>Bob Somers’ thoughts, however, were too -busy to pay any attention to these annoyances. -Were his companions safe? What had become -of the cattle rustlers who had apparently -started the stampede?</p> - -<p>Putting his hands to his mouth he uttered<span class="pagenum" id="Page_109">[109]</span> -a cry which sounded shrilly through the -woods.</p> - -<p>In a second a response came, then another, -until five had sounded from widely separated -points.</p> - -<p>“Hooray! What a relief!” cried Bob. He -felt like uttering shouts of joy. “Hello, Dave, -hello!” he called. “Where are you?”</p> - -<p>“I don’t know where I am, but I’m here,” -came back his friend’s familiar voice.</p> - -<p>“Has anybody been hurt?” came a demand, -in quavering tones.</p> - -<p>It was Larry Burnham; and his tremolo -was loud enough to bring forth a number of -negative responses.</p> - -<p>“Gee, isn’t that great!” cried Bob. “I -had dreadful visions of Tom’s supply of medical -stuffs giving out before the whole crowd -could be treated. Whew! A mighty close -shave, eh?”</p> - -<p>“I’m lost!” yelled Dave, cheerily; “I’m -floundering! Where’s Thunderbolt?”</p> - -<p>A peculiar call, like a war-whoop, suddenly -trilled through the darkness.</p> - -<p>“Me by the fire,” yelled Thunderbolt. -“You come.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_110">[110]</span>Guided by a frequent repetition of his -shouts, the lads were soon able to steer themselves -in the proper direction.</p> - -<p>Bob Somers was the first to reach the fire, -whose embers had been scattered by the cattle. -Thunderbolt, busily replenishing it, looked up.</p> - -<p>“Anybody hurt?” he demanded, anxiously.</p> - -<p>“None of us; not a bit,” laughed Bob. -“Here come the fellows now.”</p> - -<p>Dusky forms were pushing their way toward -them as fast as circumstances would allow. -And it was a highly mystified and still excited -crowd which, a moment later, were gathered -together once more.</p> - -<p>“Goodness gracious, Bob!” began Tom. -“Talk about narrow escapes! Maybe I’m not -glad everybody’s safe and sound. Honest—one -of those hulking big brutes grazed me. -Come anywhere near you, Dave?”</p> - -<p>“Just a few yards away,” answered the -stout boy. “I kept on running as hard as I -could until something tripped me, and I fell -flat on my face. Fortunately the cattle -missed me.”</p> - -<p>Thunderbolt remained impassive—silent, -during a series of thrilling recitals. Larry<span class="pagenum" id="Page_111">[111]</span> -Burnham told of having been struck a heavy, -glancing blow by one of the animals. From -the expression on his face it was very evident -the experience had greatly terrified him.</p> - -<p>“Who do you suppose could have fired -those pistol shots and made such awful -yells?” cried Tom. “It sounded like a dozen -men, at least, eh, fellows?”</p> - -<p>“Cattle rustlers, of course,” snapped Larry, -his voice still unsteady. “Now maybe you -won’t believe what Teddy Banes told us!”</p> - -<p>Bob Somers stared at the depths of the fire -thoughtfully.</p> - -<p>“Cattle rustlers usually follow up the steers, -don’t they?” he asked. “Yet it’s mighty certain -no horsemen came through that woods.”</p> - -<p>“One of the strangest mysteries we ever ran -into!” said Dick.</p> - -<p>“What nearly ran into me was no mystery,” -commented Larry, decidedly.</p> - -<p>“But why are we standing around doing -nothing?” cried Sam. “Let’s reconnoiter.”</p> - -<p>“Of course,” agreed Tom. “Come ahead, -fellows; hustle for torches.”</p> - -<p>“Much queer,” interrupted Thunderbolt. -“Never me see anything like it. I run into<span class="pagenum" id="Page_112">[112]</span> -woods; I see flash of pistol many times. Then I -make big jump. Four—five cow come straight. -I say: ‘Thunderbolt, you gone!’ I make another -jump. I say: ‘You killed, Thunderbolt!’ -Ugh! Him pass me this close.”</p> - -<p>The young Indian, holding his hands up, -indicated a space of about a foot.</p> - -<p>“What’s your idea, Thunderbolt?” asked -Dave.</p> - -<p>“Me not know. Much queer. Cattle rustlers -no drive steers in woods. Never I see -anything like it.”</p> - -<p>“Or I either,” said Bob. “The only thing -we’re certain of is that some one was hanging -around this camp.”</p> - -<p>“Makes a fellow feel kind of shivery to -think of it, too,” admitted Larry.</p> - -<p>“And that either he or they started a stampede.”</p> - -<p>“And just made a botch of it,” suggested -Tom Clifton. “They wanted to drive the -plagued brutes one way, and, instead, they beat -it right for our camp. Then the rustlers, afraid -of being seen, gave us a mighty wide berth, -but caught up with ’em outside the woods.”</p> - -<p>“Not bad deduction, Tom,” commented<span class="pagenum" id="Page_113">[113]</span> -Sam Randall, who had gathered together a -collection of pine-knots for torches.</p> - -<p>“It hardly seems worth while to make a -search now,” remarked Dave. “I’ll bet by -this time those chaps are a mighty long distance -off.”</p> - -<p>Larry Burnham devoutly wished himself -back in his Wisconsin home. After all, the -half-breed had uttered no idle warning. Here -they were, miles and miles from any settlement, -at the mercy of the first band of -marauders who should choose to attack them. -It was a very unpleasant thought. When he -looked beyond the rosy glow of the firelight -into the thick, awesome blackness, which -might be concealing some of the dangerous -characters his mind pictured, his nerves -tingled unpleasantly. Little sounds before -scarcely noticed assumed a deep significance. -To his imagination, fired by the unexpected -event, it seemed as though footsteps were not -far away.</p> - -<p>“Come on, Larry,” sang out Tom. “Don’t -let’s all keep together, fellows. I’m going -this way.”</p> - -<p>Tom was already holding aloft a blazing<span class="pagenum" id="Page_114">[114]</span> -pine-knot. And, to Larry’s amazement, without -waiting for any one to join him, he started -off in the direction from whence the sounds -had come.</p> - -<p>“He’s certainly got a lot of nerve,” mused -the blond lad. Then, turning toward Dave, -he added, “I’ll go with you.”</p> - -<p>And presently seven pine-knots were sending -weird shoots of light into the depths -of the woods. Trees sprang into view, and -flashed out; great masses of underbrush -caught the glow, held it for an instant, then -dropped from sight.</p> - -<p>Thunderbolt, eager as a coyote, with Sam -Randall at his side, frequently stooped over -to examine the ground. Bushes and grass -had been trampled almost flat by the cattle. -Down by the dark, silent water of the creek -the Indian’s eye scanned a muddy strip of -shore for signs of men or horses.</p> - -<p>He saw plenty of signs, but even he, with -all his cunning and sagacity, was unable to -determine whether any of them had been -made by strangers or not.</p> - -<p>“We can’t find a single clue,” remarked -Sam, disappointedly.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_115">[115]</span>“Men all gone now,” said Thunderbolt. -“Much queer. I no understand. Maybe cattle -rustlers; maybe not.”</p> - -<p>“It’s as deep a mystery as the Jed Warren -affair,” murmured Sam.</p> - -<p>Following the bank they explored every -foot of the way. But no discoveries of any -kind rewarded their eager search.</p> - -<p>“We find nothings,” said Thunderbolt, -disconsolately.</p> - -<p>“Perhaps when daylight comes it may be -easier,” commented Sam. “Certainly no use -in keeping this up any longer.”</p> - -<p>As the two slowly returned toward the -camp they could see torches moving erratically -about, and hear the various searchers -occasionally calling to one another. Dave -and Larry were discovered seated before the -fire.</p> - -<p>“Oh, ho!” yawned Dave, “didn’t find a -thing, eh? Well, neither did we—didn’t expect -to, either.”</p> - -<p>“I reckon we won’t do any more sleeping -to-night,” suggested Larry.</p> - -<p>“If any one is willing to take my turn on -guard,” laughed Dave, “I’ll guarantee to be<span class="pagenum" id="Page_116">[116]</span> -in the land of unrealities within ten minutes. -Really, I’m uncommonly tired.”</p> - -<p>Loud tramping in the underbrush soon -announced the return of the others.</p> - -<p>“No luck at all!” exclaimed Bob, cheerfully.</p> - -<p>“It beats me all hollow,” said Dick Travers. -“Guess Tom must have struck it about right.”</p> - -<p>“It’s another mystery for you chaps to -solve, Clifton,” said Larry, managing to grin -for the first time since his scare.</p> - -<p>Tom tossed the remains of his torch into -the fire.</p> - -<p>“Yes, it is,” he answered, grimly. “And, -by Jove, if we leave the Northwest Territories -without doing it I’ll be ashamed of the -crowd.”</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_117">[117]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER IX<br /> - -<span class="small">LARRY HAS A PLAN</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">Larry Burnham</span> didn’t get any more sleep -that night. And, as he lay with eyes half -closed, gazing at one “sentinel” after another, -he often reflected that a country in which -such startling things could happen was no -place for him.</p> - -<p>“These adventures are all right in books, or -when some chap tells about ’em,” he murmured; -“but when it comes to the real thing—excuse -me!”</p> - -<p>The boys were up with the twittering birds, -and after breakfast a thorough investigation -was made.</p> - -<p>Daylight, however, did not aid them.</p> - -<p>“I suppose,” drawled Dave, “that in my -history of the Rambler Club this particular -incident must be told with the explanation -that no explanation could ever be found.”</p> - -<p>“Saddle up, fellows,” laughed Bob. “En -route to Fool’s Castle!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_118">[118]</span>Larry Burnham listened with a grim smile. -This was the day he intended to carry out a -certain resolution. With a perseverance quite -extraordinary for him, the “promising football -player,” by the aid of a small compass, -had kept a pretty accurate record of their -travels. Directly to the south, on the line of -the railroad, was a settlement.</p> - -<p>“No one could possibly miss it,” he reflected. -And to keep going in a straight line would -require no great skill. “If it wasn’t for Tom -Clifton’s tongue, an’ that look he can put on -his face, I’d come right out an’ tell ’em what -I intend to do.”</p> - -<p>Canteens were filled at the creek, and -saddle bags repacked. The horses seemed -fresh and mettlesome—quite ready for the -journey before them.</p> - -<p>“No good, hurry too fast,” remarked -Thunderbolt. “Reach Castle this afternoon.”</p> - -<p>“I’ll be mighty glad to see it,” commented -Dave. “All men who have ideas above the -ordinary should be respected.”</p> - -<p>“They certainly made Walt Allen pay a -jolly dear price for his originality,” remarked -Sam Randall, leaping into the saddle.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_119">[119]</span>With Tom Clifton at the head the seven -riders picked their way through the woods, -which were sweetly scented with nature’s perfumes. -The dew of early morning glistened -like diamonds on leaves and grasses, and -through the openings in the trees came bright -shafts of sunlight.</p> - -<p>At a convenient place the creek was forded; -then, sweeping out into the open, they saw -before them once more vast monotonous -stretches covered with waving bunch grass.</p> - -<p>“If it was only a bit cooler I’d like to -race the crowd,” said Tom. “Slow traveling -never suited me.”</p> - -<p>“White boy ride well,” commented Thunderbolt—“just -like Indian brave.”</p> - -<p>“A chap who has been in the saddle as -much as I have couldn’t help riding well,” -said Tom, modestly. “There’s nothing like -a life in the open to bring out what’s in a -fellow. A little later, Larry, you’ll thank us -for letting you come along.”</p> - -<p>“Will I?” said Larry.</p> - -<p>“Of course you will,” laughed Tom, who -had magnanimously decided to forgive the -other for his impolite conduct on the night<span class="pagenum" id="Page_120">[120]</span> -before. “I’ll bet you’ll even be glad to do -your share of the work.”</p> - -<p>“How joyful!” jeered Larry.</p> - -<p>“Seem to be lots of cattle around,” interposed -Sam Randall.</p> - -<p>“I guess the rustlers were considerate -enough to leave a few behind as souvenirs,” -grinned Dick.</p> - -<p>Soon they were riding in the midst of a -great herd of browsing longhorns.</p> - -<p>“Whoppers, all right,” said Larry, surveying -the animals with much interest. “Chirping -crickets! Think of what they almost did -to us last night!”</p> - -<p>“I shall always feel grateful to that patch -of woods,” said Dave. “It probably helped to -save us.”</p> - -<p>“Stampede much queer,” put in Thunderbolt, -shaking his head gravely. “I no understand.”</p> - -<p>“It shows, for one thing, that Teddy Banes -knew exactly what he was talking about,” -said Larry, decisively.</p> - -<p>When the crowd finally halted for lunch in -the shadow of a barren ridge of hills Larry -Burnham began to feel nervous. The time -had come to act. Somehow twinges of conscience,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_121">[121]</span> -which before had not troubled the -lad, assailed him fiercely. Was it right to desert -the crowd in such a manner?</p> - -<p>Of course Larry knew the answer, and all -his efforts to convince himself of the soundness -of his position were unavailing.</p> - -<p>“I don’t care; I’ll do it anyway,” he muttered -savagely.</p> - -<p>Luck, however, was against him. Many -times he had let opportunities slip when he -could have cantered away without attracting -especial attention. But to-day the crowd -seemed to hang around him with exasperating -persistence. Always one or another was close -at his elbow.</p> - -<p>“Confound it!” he muttered angrily. “If -I don’t get off within a couple of hours it’ll be -too late. I don’t want to do any traveling in -the dark.”</p> - -<p>When they were again in the saddle, cantering -leisurely over the prairie, a suspicion suddenly -entered his mind.</p> - -<p>Could the boys have suspected his scheme?</p> - -<p>Larry reflected that on several occasions he -had made pretty broad hints, not expecting, -however, to be taken seriously.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_122">[122]</span>“What a silly idiot I was,” he murmured, -in great disgust. “I’ll find out mighty soon -if it’s so.”</p> - -<p>He immediately tested his theory by riding -a considerable distance in advance; and, upon -glancing over his shoulder, saw a Rambler -cantering not far behind. In fact, their every -act showed them to be clearly on the watch.</p> - -<p>In proportion as Larry’s anger increased, so -his scruples vanished. It was now a question -of either declaring himself boldly or pitting -his wits against the others’. He rebelled at -the idea of the former. Wasn’t he his own -master? Should he be forced to submit to -Tom Clifton’s sarcasm, or the loud protestations -and arguments which were sure to come -from all?</p> - -<p>No! In spite of everything he would -choose the easiest way out.</p> - -<p>And noting a peculiar grin on Tom Clifton’s -face, whenever the tall lad glanced -toward him, he often muttered: “I’ll fool -’em yet.”</p> - -<p>A pleasant breeze sweeping for miles and -miles over the vast expanse proved a great relief -to the hot and perspiring boys. It enabled<span class="pagenum" id="Page_123">[123]</span> -them to make better progress, too; for their -mounts did not show the same traces of fatigue -as before.</p> - -<p>“I reckon, at this rate, we ought to reach -Fool’s Castle late in the afternoon,” remarked -Bob Somers.</p> - -<p>“Yes,” affirmed the guide.</p> - -<p>“And I’ll be uncommonly glad to see the -place,” said Dave. “Can we go inside, Thunderbolt?”</p> - -<p>“Sure thing. No door; no window,” answered -the young Indian.</p> - -<p>“I’ll bet Larry is just aching to make a -tour of investigation,” grinned Tom.</p> - -<p>“I’m simply hilarious about it,” snapped -Larry. “I should think you chaps ought to -fit pretty well in a castle of that name.”</p> - -<p>“I’ll feel perfectly at home, anyway,” -laughed Dave, gazing into Tom’s snapping -eyes with a twinkle of amusement.</p> - -<p>The blond lad, thoroughly disgusted at the -failure of his plans, sometimes left the main -body, feeling in no mood to take part in the -merry conversation.</p> - -<p>“He’s just as sore as can be,” confided Tom -to Bob Somers.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_124">[124]</span>It was, indeed, Tom who had first discovered -what Larry had in mind. Of a very inquisitive -nature, his curiosity was not satisfied -until he had discovered the nature of the -paper which appeared to interest Larry so -greatly. This feat he succeeded in accomplishing -by lagging behind and viewing the -unsuspecting lad through a field-glass.</p> - -<p>Tom, of course, immediately made a number -of deductions and explained them to his -companions, who were soon convinced of the -correctness of his views.</p> - -<p>“And to think of his wanting to sneak -away!” went on Tom. “It’s a mighty poor -way of treating us, I’m sure.”</p> - -<p>“And I’ll bet Larry would always regret -it,” said Bob.</p> - -<p>“Sure thing! The funny part is, that I -don’t think he suspects us of knowing anything -about it.”</p> - -<p>A long time after, the travelers, hot, dusty -and tired, reached the top of an eminence -which brought into view a vast stretch of -country, broken here and there by low ridges -of hills.</p> - -<p>Thunderbolt halted. He turned toward<span class="pagenum" id="Page_125">[125]</span> -the horsemen crowding closely behind him, -his manner showing them that he had something -interesting to communicate. The brown, -muscular arm of the young Cree was extended -in the direction of the now declining sun.</p> - -<p>“Well?” cried Tom, his eyes wide open.</p> - -<p>In a sort of bowl-shaped valley which nestled -snugly at the base of the encircling hills -a purplish spot formed against a shadowed -background the outlines of a ranch-house.</p> - -<p>“Fool’s Castle!” said Thunderbolt, impressively.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_126">[126]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER X<br /> - -<span class="small">FOOL’S CASTLE</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">The</span> former ranch-house of Walt Allen -could only be reached with any degree of ease -from the open country. The hills were rocky, -rather barren, with treacherous declivities and -steep descents.</p> - -<p>The thought of an old deserted ranch-house -with so much history clinging about it appealed -strongly to Tom Clifton’s imagination. -His curiosity and impatience increased as the -distance which lay between them was gradually -cut down, and only compassion for the -pony prevented him from taking the last -stretch on a fast gallop.</p> - -<p>The upper portion of Fool’s Castle, rising -high above the stockade, rapidly became -stronger. The tall Rambler kept well in the -lead, arriving at the entrance yards ahead of -his companions. The great iron gate which -once guarded it no longer barred the way.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_127">[127]</span> -So, with a loud “Come on, fellows!” he -clattered by.</p> - -<p>All that Billy Ashe had told them was true. -The glowing light of the afternoon sun shed a -poetic luster over Fool’s Castle and its picturesque -surroundings. The columns at the -entrance, stained and broken, gave to it the -appearance of some ancient temple of the old -world. Here and there, amidst a setting of -cedars and firs, all sending long purplish -shadows over the turf, were the mutilated -statues and busts; and at the farther end a -little Greek temple revealed its form in delicate -touches of orange and blue.</p> - -<p>“Hooray!” cried Tom. “It’s worth paying -an admission to see all this.” He swung -around in his saddle. “Hurry up, Dave. -Isn’t it fine?”</p> - -<p>“We owe Walt Allen a vote of thanks,” -cried the “historian,” his eyes shining. “It’s -just as though we were dropped from the -prairie into an old Italian garden. Splendid!”</p> - -<p>Urged on by Tom, they pounded over the -hard ground, not slackening speed until the -Greek columns at the entrance were towering -high above them.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_128">[128]</span>Quickly dismounting, picket pins were -driven into the ground and horses tethered. -Then, free to do as they pleased, the boys -began to examine the structure which had -earned Walt Allen so much notoriety.</p> - -<p>The western end of the building plainly -showed the effects of the bolt of lightning. -Just outside the wide, sashless windows smoke -and flame had discolored the walls.</p> - -<p>“Much rain and cowboys help put fire out,” -explained Thunderbolt.</p> - -<p>“It’s a wonder it didn’t sweep through the -whole place,” said Dick Travers.</p> - -<p>“I’m mighty glad it didn’t,” remarked Bob.</p> - -<p>“This is simply grand!” cried the “poet.”</p> - -<p>“Come on, fellows; let’s take a look at some -of these ‘treasures’ Mr. Allen was kind -enough to leave behind.”</p> - -<p>“So poor old Jed Warren was here, too,” -murmured Tom. “Doesn’t it seem odd?”</p> - -<p>But he found himself speaking to the empty -air, for the others, too eager to wait, were -already some distance off.</p> - -<p>Dave Brandon’s face was glowing as he -walked from place to place. Now he stopped -before a statue so stained and discolored by<span class="pagenum" id="Page_129">[129]</span> -its long vigil in the open air as to make it almost -as ancient in appearance as the original -from which it had been copied. Then the -“editor” passed on to a high pedestal surmounted -by a bust of some stern-visaged old -Roman.</p> - -<p>“Delightful!” he exclaimed. “And look -at these cedars and firs! In the golden effulgence -of——”</p> - -<p>“Mercy!” snickered Larry. “What’s that?”</p> - -<p>“A word,” answered Dave. “But I suppose -I must drag myself down from the -heights of Parnassus——”</p> - -<p>“Oh—oh! Stop him, fellows!”</p> - -<p>“To the commonplace level of——”</p> - -<p>“The prairie,” supplemented Sam, laughingly.</p> - -<p>Thunderbolt listened to the various comments -with an expression which appeared to -indicate that the armor of his stoical Indian -nature was penetrated by a feeling of amusement.</p> - -<p>“You no think him one crazy man, then?” -he inquired.</p> - -<p>“Certainly not!” laughed Dave. “He -was a credit to himself and the country.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_130">[130]</span>“Let’s go into the house, fellows. There -isn’t any door to stop us,” suggested Tom.</p> - -<p>“I’ll bet it’s full of rats,” said Larry.</p> - -<p>“Or bats,” grinned Sam.</p> - -<p>Stepping upon the porch, in the shadow of -the columns, the group paused at the entrance, -to gaze into a grim, dark passageway.</p> - -<p>“Awful black!” commented Larry.</p> - -<p>“Real awe-inspiring,” laughed Tom.</p> - -<p>“Don’t be afraid, little ‘Fear-not.’ I’ll lead -the way.”</p> - -<p>The tall lad started briskly ahead, the others -crowding at his heels.</p> - -<p>It was very dark, indeed, at first; but a -warm, mellow light entered through the windows -of a room just beyond and served as a -guiding star. The sound of voices and footsteps -reverberated strangely. The boards -creaked a dismal protest to the unusual treatment -accorded them, while dust rose up in -clouds.</p> - -<p>“Hope to thunder we don’t fall into the -cellar or some hole in the floor,” said Larry, -who was not at all enjoying the experience.</p> - -<p>“Floor plenty strong,” assured the young -Cree.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_131">[131]</span>The investigators soon found that the first -floor of the ranch-house consisted of three -large rooms and a kitchen. The rays of the -sun streaking over the walls revealed the barrenness -of their dingy surroundings and -brought out strongly the thick festoons of -cobwebs which hung from the ceiling. In -places the plaster had fallen, exposing the -laths.</p> - -<p>To Larry Burnham the old, deserted place, -so far away from civilization, possessed as uninviting -an aspect as any house he had ever -seen. The traces of ornamentation, too, which -still remained served only to add to the dreary -appearance.</p> - -<p>“For goodness’ sake, let’s get outside,” he -said.</p> - -<p>“Not until we’ve visited every room,” said -Tom.</p> - -<p>Following the active, tireless Rambler, they -trooped up-stairs. Here they found more to -show what the ranch-house must have been in -its prime. In the largest room, probably once -occupied by the owner, were figure decorations -painted on the plaster of the ceiling, but now -so faded and otherwise marred by age and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_132">[132]</span> -dampness as to show only a few traces of their -original design.</p> - -<p>From here the lads wandered to the apartment -where the fire had occurred, examining -the charred beams, the smoke-begrimed walls, -the plaster lying in heaps on the floor, and -other damage wrought by lightning and fire.</p> - -<p>“Must have been a pretty hot time in lots -o’ ways,” commented Larry.</p> - -<p>“Very interesting,” said Dave; “but that -view outside the window interests me more. -Mark the contrast between the rich, deep -green of the firs and cedars and the delicate -tones of the temple.”</p> - -<p>“He’s getting worse and worse,” said Larry.</p> - -<p>“Your description, at least, fits my hunger,” -laughed Dave. “Who’s cook to-night?”</p> - -<p>“From the sublime to the ridiculous!” -laughed Bob.</p> - -<p>“Larry, of course,” said Tom.</p> - -<p>“I’m neither sublime, ridiculous nor a -cook,” grinned Larry.</p> - -<p>The blond lad, the first one down-stairs, -breathed a sigh of great relief.</p> - -<p>“Whew! This place certainly gives me the -creeps,” he murmured, with a shiver.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_133">[133]</span>The meal was soon prepared, and eaten with -great relish. Then the crowd wandered about -the stockade, or explored the hills, until darkness -came and the firelight danced and flickered -over the walls of Fool’s Castle.</p> - -<p>“At any rate we’ll have a nice, quiet night, -with a roof over our heads,” said Bob, at -length.</p> - -<p>“I’m going to enjoy it,” said Dave, “especially -after that extraordinary rumpus of last -evening.”</p> - -<p>“Say, Bob, I’ve been thinking an awful lot -about Jed Warren,” remarked Tom, abruptly.</p> - -<p>“Forget it!” snapped Larry.</p> - -<p>“Go on, go on!” scoffed Tom.</p> - -<p>“I will—to the States,” murmured the big -lad under his breath.</p> - -<p>“Our job is to hunt up the border patrol -who saw him last,” put in Bob. “His name -is Phil Hughes. Sergeant Erskine said that -by keeping due south from here we could -easily find his post near the international -boundary line. He ought to be able to give -us a lot of information.”</p> - -<p>“I never heard of such a bunch,” sniffed -Larry.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_134">[134]</span>“Oh, ho,” broke in Dave, with a yawn, -“I’m going to lie down. There’s no earthly -use for any one standing guard to-night, fellows, -so nobody need wake me up.”</p> - -<p>“All right—it’s understood,” laughed Bob.</p> - -<p>The stout boy, with a blanket tucked under -his arm, presently mounted the steps; -then, one by one, the others followed.</p> - -<p>The fire, piled high with wood, sent a flaring -yellow glow through the windows of the -room in which they intended to spend the -night. The corners, however, were very dark -and mysterious; and the shadows flitting -about assumed curious, uncanny shapes.</p> - -<p>The Ramblers, long accustomed to roughing -it, promptly rolled themselves in blankets -and lay down. Larry did the same. To his -tired, aching body the floor seemed very hard -and uncomfortable. He was rather fearful, too, -that wandering rats or spiders might make a -voyage of discovery over his recumbent form.</p> - -<p>“I guess the five husky little travelers will -have a surprise in the morning,” he reflected. -“The crowd may be smart, all right, but I -sort o’ think they’ll have to be a bit smarter -to outwit little ‘Fear-not.’”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_135">[135]</span>“We want to make an awful early start, -Bob,” Tom was saying; “so we’d better not -do any talking. Pleasant dreams, fellows!”</p> - -<p>Long after the others were enjoying blissful -slumber Larry was still awake. The windows -appeared as two glowing parallelograms amidst -a field of darkness. The forms of the sleepers -were partially lost in obscurity. Occasionally -one of them stirred; but, apart from this, the -silence was dense—oppressive.</p> - -<p>At last Larry began to slumber, and really -being much wearied, was in a profound sleep -when a frightful series of yells and pistol -shots, apparently just outside the windows, -brought him to his feet, white-faced and -trembling.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_136">[136]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER XI<br /> - -<span class="small">THE RIDER</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">The</span> confusion which instantly reigned in -that particular room of Fool’s Castle far outdid -the same kind of performance enacted on -the previous night. The boys, springing up, -bumped into each other, wildly scrambling -for points of safety, and by every action indicating -that the night surprise had acted with -terrific force on their nerves.</p> - -<p>“Help, help!” yelled Larry.</p> - -<p>The pistol shots and yells were ringing out -again. Momentarily he expected to hear the -whirr of bullets flying through the open windows.</p> - -<p>What did it mean?</p> - -<p>Bob Somers was the first to regain control -of his faculties. Regardless of the threatened -danger, he dashed out of the room. Stout -Dave Brandon followed but a few feet behind.</p> - -<p>Fairly leaping from the porch to the ground, -the two, with muscles still twitching from the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_137">[137]</span> -excitement, gazed about them. The appearance -of nature had changed. The moon was -sending a soft silvery light over the landscape. -It flooded the walls of Fool’s Castle, which -rose white and ghost-like. The “Italian -garden,” looking like some spot fit for the -tread of fairies’ feet, seemed as deserted and -quiet as a place could be.</p> - -<p>“Nothing,” said Bob—“not a sign of any -one!”</p> - -<p>“Nothing!” echoed Dave.</p> - -<p>A crowd of wildly-excited boys was now -fairly tumbling out of the ranch-house.</p> - -<p>“Who in the world could it have been, -Bob?” cried Tom Clifton, striving hard to -appear calm and collected.</p> - -<p>“It was exactly like the rumpus we heard -last night,” came from Dick Travers.</p> - -<p>“And, by Jove, the same person or persons -certainly made it!” exclaimed Sam Randall.</p> - -<p>“Much queer—no understand!” said -Thunderbolt. His bronze face showed unmistakable -evidence of great bewilderment.</p> - -<p>And every one of the group was as bewildered -as he—astounded at an event which -had happened two nights in succession.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_138">[138]</span> -Tongues fairly hurled questions and answers. -The cattle rustler theory seemed to be exploded.</p> - -<p>Standing in plain view, easily exposed to -attack, Larry Burnham’s nerves began to -shake so violently as to interfere with his -articulation.</p> - -<p>“Come on, fellows!” cried Bob, suddenly. -“They can’t be very far away.”</p> - -<p>“H-h-hold on!” stuttered Larry. “Do -you w-w-want to get shot? S-s-somebody -may be h-h-hiding among those trees!”</p> - -<p>“Then let’s find ’em!” yelled Tom, valiantly.</p> - -<p>The lads, their eyes sparkling with excitement, -dashed from point to point of the big -enclosure, Larry dragging along unwillingly -at the rear. Now they were by the deep -shadows of the cedars; then close to the -graceful columns of the little Greek temple, -only halting a moment at a time to satisfy -themselves that no other human beings were -near.</p> - -<p>“And yet,” said Bob Somers, voicing the -thoughts of all, “those sounds were right -close to the house.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_139">[139]</span>“They certainly were,” stammered Larry.</p> - -<p>“I think men have time to get out of -stockade,” declared Thunderbolt.</p> - -<p>This reasoning seemed to be correct. The -search was carried on with unabated vigor. -But their eager eyes, now turned toward the -immediate surroundings of the enclosure, -failed to detect any signs of life.</p> - -<p>“What—what’s to be done?” cried Larry.</p> - -<p>“Let’s try to think it out,” suggested Tom.</p> - -<p>“We’ve gone over almost every possible -theory,” said Dave, wearily. “It’s uncommonly -exasperating.”</p> - -<p>“We never know,” murmured Thunderbolt.</p> - -<p>“Confound it all—we will know!” shouted -Tom. “Some kind of a crowd is following us.”</p> - -<p>“Either cattle rustlers or smugglers,” declared -Larry, positively. “You heard what -Teddy Banes said about ’em.”</p> - -<p>“But what object would they have in so -rudely disturbing our slumber?” asked Dave, -with a negative shake of his head.</p> - -<p>“Just now we don’t know, and can’t know,” -said Bob. “Let’s make another search.”</p> - -<p>Fully an hour was spent before the boys -were reluctantly obliged to confess their failure;<span class="pagenum" id="Page_140">[140]</span> -and, more and more mystified, they -finally reëntered Fool’s Castle.</p> - -<p>“This ought to be a lesson to us, fellows,” -announced Bob Somers. “We must never -miss taking turns on guard.”</p> - -<p>“It was my fault, Bob,” said Dave, magnanimously.</p> - -<p>“And as a penalty I suppose you’ll take -the first watch?” grinned Dick.</p> - -<p>“A confession generally means a mitigation -of sentence,” laughed Dave.</p> - -<p>It was the stout boy, however, who presently -left the room, rifle in hand, to begin -his two hour stretch.</p> - -<p>Larry Burnham was quite amazed to find -the others lying down again as though nothing -had happened. But sleep for him was -utterly impossible. So, miserable in mind -and weary in body, he lay listening to the -soft footsteps of the sentinel outside, or gazing -abstractedly at the moon, which sent its searching -rays through the open windows.</p> - -<p>About the time the sun rose the last sentinel -ruthlessly disturbed those still asleep.</p> - -<p>“Peach of a night, wasn’t it!” exclaimed -Tom Clifton.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_141">[141]</span>“The two nights made a fine pair,” grinned -Sam.</p> - -<p>“Ho for breakfast!” cried Dave.</p> - -<p>“Well, well,” murmured the blond lad to -himself, when he discovered that no attention -was paid to him. “Looks to me as if so much -excitement has put it all out of their minds.”</p> - -<p>And in this he was quite correct.</p> - -<p>“Ha, ha! I’ll be deserter number two,” he -murmured, “What a peach o’ a little ‘Fear-not’ -I am. Maybe I was a bit scared last -night. But the idea of gettin’ a chunk o’ -lead is enough to scare any one.”</p> - -<p>After breakfast the crowd followed Dave -Brandon into the ranch-house.</p> - -<p>“I have some notes to make,” explained -the “historian.”</p> - -<p>“That settles it,” said Tom. “We’ve got -to stay here until after dinner.”</p> - -<p>Larry anxiously waited and watched. But -no opportunity to slip away presented itself.</p> - -<p>The lads, still full of the mystery, continued -to speculate upon it as they walked briskly -around the stockade, or wandered over the -surrounding hills and prairie.</p> - -<p>To the blond lad’s extreme annoyance, lunch<span class="pagenum" id="Page_142">[142]</span> -was late. He began to fear again that the -fates were against him. He didn’t enjoy the -meal. And the way the others lingered over -it tried his patience almost to the limit.</p> - -<p>Hope, however, asserted itself while the -dishes were being cleared away.</p> - -<p>“It’s never good to travel right after a big -meal,” declared Dave; “so we’d better remain -as guests of Fool’s Castle for another hour or -two.”</p> - -<p>“Well, it’s a nice cool place, anyway,” said -Dick Travers. “Who wants to do a bit more -exploring—you, Tom?—Good! Come along -then.”</p> - -<p>Larry sauntered leisurely toward the door.</p> - -<p>Twenty minutes had passed, when a “Hello, -Bob; hello!” in Tom Clifton’s voice brought -the Rambler, who was talking to Dave, Sam, -and Thunderbolt, to his feet.</p> - -<p>“What is it, Tom?” he called.</p> - -<p>“We can see a chap riding in the distance!” -cried Tom, excitedly.</p> - -<p>“Gee whiz! That’s interesting!” exclaimed -Sam Randall. “Maybe it’s one of those -fellows who serenaded us last night.”</p> - -<p>To Sam’s great astonishment, Bob Somers,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_143">[143]</span> -without replying, made a wild dash for the door. -His eyes quickly ran over the tethered horses.</p> - -<p>“Just what I was afraid of!” he cried, -breathlessly.</p> - -<p>Larry Burnham’s mount was missing.</p> - -<p>“Suffering grasshoppers!” burst out Sam, -staring with wide-open eyes. “He—he—has -actually skipped!”</p> - -<p>“Hurry up, Bob,” came from Tom. “Get -your field-glass on him. He’s only a tiny speck -now.”</p> - -<p>“Outwitted!” grumbled Sam.</p> - -<p>Bob Somers did not wait to listen. Leaping -up the steps which led to the second floor he -rushed into the room where the two lads were -standing by the open window.</p> - -<p>“Only wish he was coming this way,” began -Tom. “Quick, Bob. I want a squint. -We may learn something.”</p> - -<p>“We have already!” cried Bob.</p> - -<p>“What—what?”</p> - -<p>Then, as Sam Randall and Thunderbolt -burst in upon them, a belated suspicion of the -truth flashed into Tom Clifton’s mind. His -mouth opened; a deep scowl settled on his -features; his fists were clenched.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_144">[144]</span>“Oh—oh! What a dub I was, never to -think of it! Oh—oh! It’s Larry—Larry -Burnham; I know it is!”</p> - -<p>Forgetting politeness in his eagerness Tom -seized the field-glass from Bob Somers’ hands -and leveled it hastily upon the tiny figure of -horse and rider.</p> - -<p>His fears were realized. There, in a bright -circle of light, the high-power glass showed -the image of Larry Burnham and his horse.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_145">[145]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER XII<br /> - -<span class="small">TOM FOLLOWS</span></h2> -</div> - -<p>“<span class="smcap">The</span> meanest thing I ever heard of!” -cried Tom, handing back the binocular.</p> - -<p>“A silly chump, all right; but he got -ahead of us this time,” exclaimed Sam Randall.</p> - -<p>“Me no understand why he do it,” came -from Thunderbolt.</p> - -<p>“It means that some one will have to ride -after him,” remarked Bob, quietly. “Larry -may miss his way.”</p> - -<p>“And get into all sorts of trouble, besides,” -said Dick.</p> - -<p>“Fellows,” cried Tom, “I’ll chase him. -There isn’t a bit of use in the whole bunch -going.”</p> - -<p>In a fever of impatience he sprang toward -the door.</p> - -<p>“Hold on, Tom,” called Sam. “Suppose -Larry refuses to come back?—What then?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_146">[146]</span>Tom found a ready answer to this question. -Even if the blond lad should, indeed, decline -to listen to persuasion, arguments, or shafts of -sarcasm, his mission would not be a failure.</p> - -<p>“I’ll see him safely aboard a train,” he -said. “Then we won’t be worrying our heads -off for fear he’s either lost or starving.”</p> - -<p>“Or done up by those gentlemen who fired -off pistols, and uttered such riotous yells,” -laughed Sam Randall.</p> - -<p>Down-stairs, a brief consultation was held. -The opinion that Tom should go alone was -not unanimous.</p> - -<p>Tom, however, determined to show his mettle, -resourcefulness and courage, stoutly insisted.</p> - -<p>Then, to end the argument, he ran briskly -from the room; and, once outside, dashed -toward the horses at a rate which set them all -to prancing wildly about.</p> - -<p>The tall boy made it a point to be always -in a state of preparedness. His saddle bags -and canteens were already filled. What little -work remained to be done he accomplished -quickly, and just as the reins snapped into -place sang out:</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_147">[147]</span></p> - -<div class="figcenter"><img src="images/p146.jpg" alt="" /></div> -<p class="caption">“GOOD LUCK, OLD BOY”</p> - -<p>“Now I’m off, fellows, in search of Larry—and -adventure!”</p> - -<p>His companions, standing near the imposing -columns of Fool’s Castle, were waving -farewells.</p> - -<p>“Good luck, old boy!” shouted Bob Somers.</p> - -<p>“Don’t worry about me,” yelled Tom, leaping -on the pony’s back. “I’m too old a hand -at this game to get into any trouble. So-long!”</p> - -<p>His hand came down sharply on the animal’s -flank. Then the interested onlookers -saw their chum galloping swiftly toward the -gate, leaving behind him clouds of yellowish -dust.</p> - -<p>Tom’s chagrin had given place to a feeling -of elation. Now there was no one to hold him -in check. He was his own master, to ride the -great reaches before him as fast or as slowly as -he pleased. Cattle rustlers! Smugglers!—Bah! -He’d like to see any who could frighten -him!</p> - -<p>“I know the settlement Larry is bound for,” -he reflected—“found it on Bob Somers’ map. -Ha, ha—won’t little ‘Fear-not’ be surprised -to see me flying up behind him?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_148">[148]</span>Fool’s Castle soon became but a spot of light -in the far-away distance. Before him was the -undulating prairie, the grass and earth sometimes -glowing with color, then shadowed by -passing clouds. Although Tom rode fast, he -eagerly kept his eyes open for evidences of the -“fugitive.”</p> - -<p>“This isn’t like a paper chase,” he muttered. -“Guess even Thunderbolt wouldn’t -find it so easy.”</p> - -<p>Then, for the first time, the lad noted a -sense of loneliness beginning to steal over him. -Before, his thoughts had been so busily occupied -that he had scarcely considered anything -but duty. Now, however, without the -cheery voices of his companions, or the sight -of them galloping close by, the prairie, vast -and almost unbroken, took on a strangely -desolate appearance.</p> - -<p>Not a living thing was in sight; not even a -bird. He reflected how easy it might be for -an inexperienced traveler like Larry to lose -his bearings.</p> - -<p>After several hours’ traveling Tom reached -a range of hills over which it was extremely -difficult to find a route. Steep and rocky<span class="pagenum" id="Page_149">[149]</span> -slopes turned him aside, or thickly-timbered -stretches filled with underbrush made progress -very slow.</p> - -<p>“Gee whiz! There wasn’t anything on Bob -Somers’ map that looked like this,” soliloquized -the lad. “I wonder how in the world -little ‘Fear-not’ managed?”</p> - -<p>As the horse struggled up a steep incline, -every impact of its hoofs sending down -showers of turf and stones, Tom’s face reflected -his worried feelings. Long before this -he had expected to overtake the “deserter.” -His pride rebelled at the thought of returning -to the camp without him, or not being able to -greet his friends with the triumphant shout:</p> - -<p>“Hello, boys; I saw Larry off on the train, -all right!”</p> - -<p>But here was nature conspiring against him—a -very unkind proceeding, he thought. -Tom’s lips tightened. A scowl of determination -appeared on his forehead.</p> - -<p>“I’ll find that fellow if it takes a week,” he -growled savagely. “The chaps back there’ll -know I’m safe.”</p> - -<p>In spite of his impatience, however, he felt -obliged to give his horse a rest at the top of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_150">[150]</span> -the hill. Below him was a valley; directly -across, another range of hills, their tree-covered -tops showing sharply against the sky. -It all looked very wild—desolate. But for his -long experience in camping out and roughing -it his task of finding Larry would have -seemed a hopeless one.</p> - -<p>The Rambler gazed at the cool shadow of -the hill already beginning to climb the side -of its neighbor.</p> - -<p>“I declare, this is exasperating!” he said, -aloud. “By George, I’ll give a yell. Maybe -the big dunce is near enough to hear me. -Hello, Larry; hello!” he shouted.</p> - -<p>His gruff, deep voice was taken up by the -surrounding hills and hurled back in a series -of weird echoes. He waited expectantly. -But no answer was returned.</p> - -<p>“Get up, old boy,” commanded Tom. -“Sorry, but you’ve got more hard traveling -before you.”</p> - -<p>The descent was difficult—even dangerous. -Frequently his horse’s legs slid on slippery -turf, or were caught in the tenacious grip of -tangled vines.</p> - -<p>Tom’s indignation against Larry returned,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_151">[151]</span> -and grew in proportion to the difficulties encountered.</p> - -<p>“Oh, I do wonder why we ever let that -big tenderfoot come along,” he grumbled. -“Honest, I don’t believe I was ever more disgusted -in my life. I’d certainly like to take -a punch at him.”</p> - -<p>Down in the valley traveling became easier. -So Tom urged his horse into a gallop, keeping -up a good pace until the opposite range of -hills rose before him. Here, again, the same -difficulties were encountered.</p> - -<p>“All the same, it isn’t going to stop little -Stick-at-it,” mused Tom, determinedly. “If -a Northwest Mounted Policeman can ride -alone through places like this I guess I -can.”</p> - -<p>After another long, toilsome climb the traveler -saw extending before him a great reach of -undulating prairie—a sight which was, indeed, -refreshing.</p> - -<p>“Hooray!” he shouted.</p> - -<p>Pulling up, he critically surveyed the topography -of the land somewhat after the fashion -of a general about to plan a strategic -move.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_152">[152]</span>Fully two miles away a river cut across the -plain in a northwesterly direction.</p> - -<p>“It may mean a swim,” he thought. -“Come on, old boy.”</p> - -<p>He began to thread his way down the hill, -occasionally taking portions at a rattling pace.</p> - -<p>At the base he stopped to give his horse a -good rest and refresh himself with a few -crackers and a drink of water from his canteen.</p> - -<p>One thing greatly puzzled Tom Clifton: -had Larry Burnham been left in the rear, or -was his start sufficient to enable him to cross -the hills in advance?</p> - -<p>In view of Larry’s general character the -former theory seemed the more probable. He -was not one to conquer difficulties with ease; -nor did he possess any great amount of resourcefulness. -The most courageous thing he -had ever done was, probably, actually to undertake -this long journey alone.</p> - -<p>“It shows that being with us has done -Larry a whole lot of good,” he said, aloud. -“Why, I believe at first he’d have been scared -enough to blubber if the crowd had ever got -out of his sight.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_153">[153]</span>He remounted, and, riding at a good clip, -soon saw the hills dropping low behind him, -while the line of scrubby trees by the river -assumed strength and color with each passing -minute.</p> - -<p>Every now and again he called with all his -force, hoping that in a place where sounds -carry such astonishing distances, his cries -might possibly reach the other’s ears.</p> - -<p>No responses, however, were carried back -on the breeze.</p> - -<p>Now he could see the river plainly, tinted -by the hues of the sky overhead.</p> - -<p>He quickly cantered across the space which -lay between, and on drawing rein upon the -grass-covered bank gave vent to an exclamation -of surprise. The river was far wider than -he had expected.</p> - -<p>“Huh! I’ll bet Larry Burnham never -crossed this,” he cried, decisively; “no, sir—never -in the world. He can’t swim. This -is certainly a pretty how-de-do.”</p> - -<p>His investigations in either direction did -not reveal enough change in the width of the -stream to cause him to alter his opinion.</p> - -<p>“Of course there isn’t a bit of use in crossing,”<span class="pagenum" id="Page_154">[154]</span> -he exclaimed aloud. “What’s to be -done? By Jove, I’ll camp right here.”</p> - -<p>The lad, thoroughly disgusted, looked -around for a suitable place. Some distance -back from the stream a hollow fringed by a -growth of scrubby trees and bushes was discovered.</p> - -<p>“Just as good as though it had been made -to order,” he murmured, when he presently -dismounted and picketed his horse.</p> - -<p>Now hunger, thirst and weary bones were -beginning to occupy a prominent place in his -thoughts. Working hard, he built a fire and -cooked supper.</p> - -<p>By the time it was eaten the sky was already -growing gray and somber. Watching -the slow approach of night alone wasn’t half -so much fun as when his friends surrounded -him. Perhaps never before had he felt quite -so lonely, or been so much impressed by the -solemnity of nature.</p> - -<p>“I won’t be sorry when the moon shows its -face,” he reflected. “Gee whiz—I wonder -how poor old Larry feels!”</p> - -<p>Before it became too dark he watered his -horse; then returning to the hollow piled on<span class="pagenum" id="Page_155">[155]</span> -wood until the tongues of fiercely shooting -flames sent a ruddy illumination far beyond -the camp.</p> - -<p>For a while he walked up and down some -distance out on the prairie. The stars were -shining brightly, but the intense blackness -finally drove the Rambler back to the little -hollow, the only spot in the great expanse -which seemed to hold a ray of cheer.</p> - -<p>At last Tom spread his blanket over the -ground and lay down. He began to think of -the splendid account of his experiences he -could give his school-fellows.</p> - -<p>Then the hush of the night, the playful -gleams of the fire, combined with his own -fatigue, made a drowsy feeling steal over him; -and, on the border line between sleeping -and waking, he lay, scarcely stirring as time -passed on.</p> - -<p>Dimly it began to be impressed upon his -mind that the moon was rising. He could -see a glow over the hills which vaguely suggested -a far-off conflagration. A bright rim -presently crept over the brow. He was glad. -The awesome darkness would fly.</p> - -<p>Lazily he watched the satellite; then fell<span class="pagenum" id="Page_156">[156]</span> -into a doze. And when his eyes opened again, -after what seemed to be but a moment’s interval, -he was surprised to see how far it had -climbed in the sky. The fire had died away, -leaving a crumbling mass of red-hot coals. It -was too cheerful a companion to be lost.</p> - -<p>So Tom, with a yawn, raised himself on his -elbow, intent upon replenishing it.</p> - -<p>At this instant his ears caught a slight -sound which did not seem to be made by his -horse or the breeze. Something impelled him -to jump hastily to his feet—to swing around -and face the clump of trees over whose stunted -forms the moonbeams were playing.</p> - -<p>A thrill that was almost a shock suddenly -gripped him. He staggered back. He had -made an astounding discovery.</p> - -<p>Sitting silent and motionless in the shadow -was a man. His face could be scarcely seen; -but the barrel of a rifle resting across his knees -threw out gleams of light.</p> - -<p>The momentary shock having passed, Tom -Clifton was about to speak, when, to his -amazement and alarm, the man sprang to his -feet and darted toward him.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_157">[157]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER XIII<br /> - -<span class="small">SMUGGLERS</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">Yes</span>, Larry Burnham had outwitted the -Ramblers. Smart as they thought themselves -it proved a very easy matter to lead -his horse outside the stockade, mount and -gallop away.</p> - -<p>So long as he kept within sight of Fool’s -Castle he kept turning in the saddle; and -each time, discovering no pursuers, his grin -of satisfaction increased.</p> - -<p>“I can just imagine how Tom Clifton’ll -stamp around and roar,” he chuckled. -“Here’s where little ‘Fear-not’ scores.”</p> - -<p>There was nothing to disturb Larry Burnham’s -peace of mind. He just had to keep -riding straight ahead until the settlement was -reached; then a train would speedily carry -him back to the States and civilization.</p> - -<p>“But for this miserable Jed Warren business -I’d probably have stuck it out,” he soliloquized.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_158">[158]</span> -“But such a long wild goose -chase!”</p> - -<p>What to do with his horse had at first -bothered the boy; but he finally concluded -to have the animal shipped to his father’s -Wisconsin farm.</p> - -<p>“All serene,” he laughed. “Even if the -bunch are angry I’ll fix it up with them -when they get back to Kingswood.”</p> - -<p>Some hours later Larry’s troubles began. -They loomed up in the shape of hills. He -surveyed with dismay the barrier which -nature had set against him. Accustomed to -put responsibilities upon others wherever possible, -he was at a disadvantage when compelled -to depend entirely upon himself.</p> - -<p>The long detours, the difficulties which -beset him on all sides, were eating up precious -time. Often he became confused, lost his -bearings, and, in his impatience plunged -blindly ahead, many times forced by steep -declivities or obstructions to retrace his way.</p> - -<p>A troubled look came into his eyes. It -was exasperating to be so balked—to have his -well-laid plans threatened with failure. The -thought of Tom Clifton’s laughter, and the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_159">[159]</span> -sarcastic remarks he would be certain to make -caused Larry’s lips to tighten.</p> - -<p>“Get up, get up!” he growled. “We’ll -reach that railroad or leave our bones on the -plain. Ha, ha, ha—that’s a good one! This -situation is makin’ me feel dramatic.”</p> - -<p>Before he at last managed to reach the river -the rider had passed a most unpleasant period. -His face was scratched and bruised; while -the jolting and tossing about in the saddle -added considerably to the soreness of his -bones and muscles.</p> - -<p>The lad, however, managed to stand all -these things with some degree of patience -until he found himself facing a stretch of -water far wider than he had ever expected.</p> - -<p>“Now what am I to do?” he cried, in utter -disgust. “By Jingo, I’m blocked—blocked -for fair. Horses are mighty good swimmers, -I know; but trustin’ my safety to a nag when -there’s no one around to give me a hand if -anything happens doesn’t suit me.”</p> - -<p>Larry’s impatience soon began to change -into genuine alarm. He could discover no -place, either up or down the river, where he -dared to ford. At last, completely at a loss<span class="pagenum" id="Page_160">[160]</span> -to know what to do, he sprang to the -ground.</p> - -<p>The thought of being obliged to pass the -night alone filled him with dread. For the -first time he began bitterly to regret his -course.</p> - -<p>“From the map I judged this river to be a -small affair like some of the others the crowd -crossed,” he grumbled. “But, hang it all, -this might as well be the Atlantic Ocean.”</p> - -<p>It was a long time before Larry’s unhappy -frame of mind permitted him to get up sufficient -energy to search for a camping place. -About a hundred feet from the river a thick -clump of bushes spotted the prairie; and their -shelter, he decided, was more inviting than -the broad open stretches.</p> - -<p>After unsaddling and picketing his horse, -he drew a hatchet from his belt and sallied -out in search of wood. It seemed as though -the irony of fate was plunging him right into -the kind of work he so cordially detested.</p> - -<p>“I reckon this would make Tom Clifton -laugh,” he thought, with a smile which had -little mirth in it.</p> - -<p>The necessity for swift work if he wished to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_161">[161]</span> -have supper before dark put some action into -his big frame; so, in a comparatively short -time, an armful of wood was carried over to -the camp. Larry was doubtful about his -ability as chef, never having prepared a meal -in his life. Still, he reflected, cooking bacon -and potatoes requires but little skill. The -quantity of coffee to use, however, puzzled -him.</p> - -<p>“I guess it isn’t more’n a cupful, anyway,” -he remarked, aloud.</p> - -<p>A roaring fire was immediately kindled and -saddle bags unpacked. Larry, as might have -been expected, soon succeeded in burning his -fingers, as well as the bacon. The gravy -caught fire, and in attempting to put it out he -knocked several of the largest slices into the -flames, thereby adding for a few seconds a -furious sputtering and hissing.</p> - -<p>The coffee had a strangely unfamiliar taste; -nor were the potatoes any better, being burnt -almost black on one side and nearly raw on -the other. He was, therefore, obliged to -depend almost entirely on the canned goods -and crackers.</p> - -<p>The ill success which attended his efforts<span class="pagenum" id="Page_162">[162]</span> -served to relieve Larry’s mind, for a short -time, from his greater troubles. They returned, -however, with added force when the -tin dishes were cleared away. The light was -fast fading; the hills had become dark and -somber. Sounds of chirping insects, or an occasional -cry from some far-away bird, increased -the sense of utter desolation. How heartily -glad he would have been to see the Ramblers -about the fire. Even Tom Clifton’s oddities -and annoying ways appeared to him in a -different light at this particular moment.</p> - -<p>While the landscape was in the full glare -of sunlight no feelings of possible danger had -worried him. But now his mind began to be -occupied with thoughts of smugglers and -cattle rustlers—men whom Teddy Banes denounced -as rough and dangerous characters. -And the two mysterious alarms in the night -certainly proved that the half-breed had good -reasons for his warning.</p> - -<p>“Oh, I do wish I had stuck to the crowd!” -exclaimed Larry, attempting to master a -nervous feeling which now and again came -upon him. “If I can’t get across this river -somewhere it means a jaunt back to Fool’s<span class="pagenum" id="Page_163">[163]</span> -Castle. And—and—suppose I can’t find the -place?—or the fellows have gone?”</p> - -<p>He abruptly paused. Such an eventuality -quite staggered him. His stock of provisions -would last only a few days. He possessed no -knowledge of woodcraft, or of the ability to -keep oneself alive, in case of emergency, by -such edibles as might be found in the woods -and fields. True, Larry carried a rifle; but he -suspected, not without good reason, that any -animal would have to be either very large or -very close to stand in danger.</p> - -<p>“Hang it all, I’m in a pretty mess!” he -said, disgustedly.</p> - -<p>It was the inaction—the impossibility of -making any move for hours—which drove the -usually indolent Larry to pacing up and down -at a furious rate. As the dusk gathered -around him he kept closer and closer to the -fire, then, oppressed by the darkness, took a -seat close beside it.</p> - -<p>“Oh, how delightful life in the open is!” -he thought. “To hear Tom Clifton chirp -about it a chap might think it was one of the -most glorious things in the world. I’m going -to dream about this experience for a month.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_164">[164]</span>At last, hoping he might be able to forget -his troubles in sleep, Larry spread a blanket -on the ground and lay down. The long -journey had fatigued him; and this, together -with the softly-stirring air, brought on a condition -which soon resulted in deep, heavy -slumber.</p> - -<p>Some hours afterward Larry Burnham suddenly -awoke. The fire was practically out. -A very faint light came from the rising moon. -Vaguely uneasy, he raised himself to an -upright position.</p> - -<p>A sound had aroused him. It came again—a -creak, as though made by wagon wheels. -Then, following this, the faint thud of horses’ -hoofs was clearly perceptible.</p> - -<p>With a gasp of surprise, Larry looked -eagerly about.</p> - -<p>Over the top of the bushes, scarcely more -than a darkish blur against the landscape, he -detected an object moving slowly along. And -in advance, and following, were several horsemen.</p> - -<p>“Great Scott!” he muttered, breathlessly.</p> - -<p>At first a thrill of joy ran through him. -Here was relief—men, undoubtedly, who<span class="pagenum" id="Page_165">[165]</span> -could put him on the right track. But the -impulse to make his presence known suddenly -disappeared.</p> - -<p>Who were they?</p> - -<p>Wasn’t there something queer about a -wagon and a silent body of horsemen passing -across the prairie at such an hour?</p> - -<p>Cautiously, Larry dragged himself nearer -the bushes. He now began to feel thankful -for having chosen such a secluded retreat, and -that the smouldering remains of his fire were -not bright enough to betray his presence. -The horse, too, was lying down.</p> - -<p>The words of Teddy Banes rang in his ears. -He strained his eyes to make out the form of -the vehicle. Its blurred outlines, now almost -abreast the bushes, were sufficiently strong to -enable him to see its canvas-covered sides and -top.</p> - -<p>“Judgin’ by the speed they’re makin’ it -must be pretty heavily loaded,” thought Larry.</p> - -<p>He listened intently, hoping to catch some -stray bits of conversation which might give -him some idea of the character of the men. -Not a word, however, came from the little -procession moving so methodically and steadily<span class="pagenum" id="Page_166">[166]</span> -by. This curious silence had a peculiar -effect on Larry’s nerves. He felt convinced -that he was seeing something entirely out of -the ordinary.</p> - -<p>Time seemed to pass with almost unendurable -slowness. He longed to rise, to stretch -his legs—but did not dare to do so until the -wagon and its accompanying horsemen were -almost indistinguishable in the distance. -Then Larry Burnham rose to his feet.</p> - -<p>“Score another one for Teddy Banes,” he -said, softly. “Sure as I live it’s a band of -smugglers!”</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_167">[167]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER XIV<br /> - -<span class="small">LARRY’S COURAGE</span></h2> -</div> - -<p>“<span class="smcap">Smugglers</span>!” The word had a very unpleasant -sound to Larry Burnham’s ears. He -was sure he had been an actual witness of one -of those expeditions for which the Northwest -Mounted Police are continually on the lookout.</p> - -<p>The blond lad scanned the landscape earnestly. -How he longed for daylight! How -slowly the hours would pass! It was bad -enough to be alone in that great wilderness; -but it seemed infinitely worse to know that -other human beings were near.</p> - -<p>“Yes, I’ll just go back and take my medicine,” -grunted Larry, “and let Tom do the -last laugh business. Why, that big, barren -room at Fool’s Castle would look like a palace -to-night. Here’s where I get to work!”</p> - -<p>Larry’s work consisted of walking to and -fro, at the same time allowing his mind to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_168">[168]</span> -dwell on all the stories he had ever heard -concerning dreadful things which had happened -to travelers out in the open. That -same old moon he now saw had looked down -upon some mighty strange scenes. He was -quite sure he would never forget how the orb -appeared on this occasion—its shape was so -odd, its rays so weird.</p> - -<p>At length he stopped pacing and looked -with a searching gaze at the point in the landscape -where the wagon had last been seen.</p> - -<p>“Hello!” he exclaimed, softly; “don’t I -see something?”</p> - -<p>His interest became so great that, forgetting -caution, he walked beyond the shelter of the -bushes.</p> - -<p>“Great Scott—horsemen again,” he murmured. -“Why, the prairie must be full o’ -’em.”</p> - -<p>Three faint spots not far apart seemed to be -moving along at an extraordinary pace.</p> - -<p>“What in the world can that mean?” -thought Larry, becoming excited again.</p> - -<p>Retreating behind the shelter of the bushes -he kept his eyes on the approaching riders as -though fascinated by the spectacle. The three<span class="pagenum" id="Page_169">[169]</span> -specks were increasing in size with remarkable -rapidity.</p> - -<p>“It looks as though somebody is getting -chased,” thought Larry. “That chap in the -lead certainly seems to be doing all he can to -get away. Whew—what a night it has been!”</p> - -<p>At first he was fearful that the horsemen -might descend directly upon his camp. A -little study, however, convinced him that unless -they swerved considerably from their -course the riders would pass some distance -away.</p> - -<p>There was something so mysterious, so unusual -in the scene being enacted before his -eyes that his mind became filled with the -most dreadful misgivings. Now there came -to his ears a faint sound of voices and the -rapid hoof-beats of the racing horses.</p> - -<p>“Oh, wouldn’t I give a lot if I had Bob -Somers’ field-glass,” he muttered. “Gee! -They’re gainin’ on that chap. In a few minutes -more they’ll have him.”</p> - -<p>Larry’s prediction was quickly verified. He -saw the three horses swing together and form -one confused patch of dark against the silvery -sheen of the plain. Almost instantly they<span class="pagenum" id="Page_170">[170]</span> -came to a standstill. Then, once more, he -heard the sound of voices—angry voices, too.</p> - -<p>“There’s some fellow out there in a whole -lot of trouble!” exclaimed the watcher, half -aloud.</p> - -<p>Though with eyes opened to their widest -extent and ears primed to catch the faintest -sound, Larry sought vainly to gain some idea -of what was taking place. Curiosity began to -get the better of his fears.</p> - -<p>“It surely has something to do with that -band of smugglers,” he thought. “By Jove—look!”</p> - -<p>The three men had wheeled about and were -returning in the direction from whence they -had come. All were riding almost as furiously -as before.</p> - -<p>“I’ll bet he’s been taken prisoner!” cried -Larry, excitedly, jumping to his feet. “Gee -whiz! Teddy Banes was certainly right!”</p> - -<p>Then he began to experience an uncomfortable -feeling that if any one was in trouble a -stern duty lay before him: he must, at least, -investigate.</p> - -<p>“Suppose I got in a fix like that! What -should I think of a chap who stood by and did<span class="pagenum" id="Page_171">[171]</span> -nothing?” he growled, striking his big chest -a blow with his fist. “By Jove, I’d put him -down as a pretty poor specimen!”</p> - -<p>When Larry’s thoughts began to be taken off -himself and his own troubles his courage rapidly -rose.</p> - -<p>“Maybe little ‘Fear-not’ will score in this -game!” he cried. “And if he does I’ll make -it a point to let Tom Clifton hear all about -it.”</p> - -<p>He strode over to the horse.</p> - -<p>“Get up, you lazy creature, get up!” he -cried.</p> - -<p>And putting his big hands upon the “lazy -creature’s” shoulder he gave it a violent shove -which speedily brought the animal to its feet.</p> - -<p>The change which had come over the -“promising football player” within a few moments -was quite remarkable. All his timidity -and fear seemed to have disappeared. Now -no one would have recognized in him the lad -who had sheltered himself behind a fringe of -bushes.</p> - -<p>For the first time a little get up and go -seemed to have crept into his nature. Faster -than he had ever done so before, he saddled<span class="pagenum" id="Page_172">[172]</span> -the horse. Then, vaulting upon its back, he -rode away at a swift pace.</p> - -<p>The gleams of the rifle barrel resting across -the pommel served to give him a sense of security. -Larry actually felt surprised at himself. -He also began to feel a trifle ashamed. -Viewing matters from a different standpoint, -he suddenly began to wonder what the boys -in Kingswood would think of his “desertion.”</p> - -<p>“Thunderation!” he growled, angrily. -“Maybe they’ll call me a ‘quitter.’ I was -sort o’ thinkin’ the joke would be on the other -side; but I guess I’ll be the one that’s going -to catch it!” Growing reckless, he urged his -horse into a faster gallop. “Tom Clifton was -right. I’ve been a little ‘Fear-not’ who feared -everything.”</p> - -<p>Having come to this unpleasant conclusion, -Larry appeared to lose all caution and restraint. -His horse was fresh, the air cool, -and almost as fast as he had seen the mysterious -riders dash over the plain, so he rode in -pursuit of them, with the breeze blowing his -sandy hair wildly against his face.</p> - -<p>And all the time he kept an eager lookout -for the riders somewhere ahead. Unless they<span class="pagenum" id="Page_173">[173]</span> -were making for some pass in the hills he felt -sure his scrutiny would soon be rewarded. -The blond lad regarded himself as quite a -hero.</p> - -<p>“By Jinks, I can understand now how -the Ramblers feel about these trips,” he soliloquized. -“I must have been asleep all the -time.”</p> - -<p>His fiery pony was pounding over the plain -at a reckless rate, and the faster he went the -faster he wanted to go. In the exhilaration -he felt almost like shouting. With the bunch -grass on every side, it seemed as though he -was plunging into a waste of silvery waves.</p> - -<p>Suddenly a reddish gleam in the midst of a -patch of timber caught his eye; then, as intervening -trees came between, flashed out; -then reappeared once more.</p> - -<p>“Whoa—whoa!” whispered Larry, softly. -“Here’s a development I wasn’t expectin’. -Where there’s a camp-fire there must be men.”</p> - -<p>Pulling up his steaming horse, some of his -old feelings of nervousness returned.</p> - -<p>“It may be dangerous,” he reflected. “Oh, -thunder! Wonder what I’d better do?”</p> - -<p>For several moments he debated the question;<span class="pagenum" id="Page_174">[174]</span> -then, making up his mind, rode to a -tree close by, and, dismounting, tied his -horse.</p> - -<p>“By George, I’ll sneak up,” he muttered, -determinedly. “Little ‘Fear-not’ is going to -see this business through to the end.”</p> - -<p>Unslinging his rifle, and using the utmost -care, Larry crept slowly toward the light, -which was more often out of sight than in. -There was no sound of voices or anything else -to indicate the presence of campers. This, -however, he argued, was not to be wondered -at, as the hour was very late.</p> - -<p>No Indian stealing upon an unwary foe -could have used greater care than he. But -not possessing the Indian’s skill the sharp -cracking of twigs, or other noises made by his -advance, often caused him to stop, his heart -beating fast.</p> - -<p>“Suppose some one should suddenly pop -out from those bushes and draw a bead on -me!” he muttered, shiveringly.</p> - -<p>Several times he was on the point of giving -up, but on each occasion shook his head.</p> - -<p>“If anything happens, it happens!” he said -grimly.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_175">[175]</span>Now came the step which called for all his -courage. He could see the embers, down in a -little hollow, glowing brightly. The dark -trees rose before him—ominously dark—their -scraggly branches assuming in the whitish -light of the moon a weird and sinister aspect.</p> - -<p>Within their shadows, Larry Burnham, -crouching behind a bush, looked and listened -with painful intensity. His mind continually -pictured menacing figures but a few yards -away waiting for his appearance. A crackling -of the embers filled him with sudden terror. -Only a powerful effort prevented him from -fleeing in mad panic.</p> - -<p>Finally he quelled his shaking nerves, and -worked his way to a point where a clear view -of the hollow was before him. The tension -leaped away. He uttered a sigh of heartfelt -relief.</p> - -<p>The camp was deserted.</p> - -<p>The instant this discovery was made, Larry, -with a boldness in great contrast to his former -stealth, rose to his feet and walked directly -toward the fire.</p> - -<p>The first thing which struck his attention -was the appearance of the ground and grass.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_176">[176]</span> -The latter in many places was beaten down, -while deep imprints and clods of torn-up -earth gave every indication that some terrific -struggle had taken place. And, to add to these -evidences, his eye lighted on a bush, partially -flattened, its branches and leaves scattered -about. “By whom?—how?”</p> - -<p>The astounded Larry Burnham asked himself -these questions over and over again.</p> - -<p>The silence, the peace of the enclosure -appeared in such striking contrast to something -which he could see only too clearly had -taken place. And the impression on his mind -was tremendous.</p> - -<p>“By Jingo!” he murmured, breathlessly, -“those shouts and pistol shots seem tame -alongside of this. Believe me, it’s enough to -give a chap the creeps.”</p> - -<p>Bending over, he followed the tracks with -the minutest care, then suddenly straightened -up with an exclamation.</p> - -<p>A bit further along, partly hidden by tall -grass, he saw several dark objects. In his -eagerness he almost leaped toward them.</p> - -<p>“Great Scott—a bridle an’ saddle!” he exclaimed. -“But where is the horse they belong<span class="pagenum" id="Page_177">[177]</span> -to? This is another mystery. And, by -George, it’s a hummer!”</p> - -<p>Dragging the saddle to a smoother piece of -ground, he began to examine it. Then, as -though something had struck him a blow, he -straightened up and almost staggered back.</p> - -<p>He had seen that particular saddle before.</p> - -<p>“It can’t be possible,” he gasped—“it can’t -be!”</p> - -<p>Eager and with trembling hands he looked -it over again. Now, all doubts were stilled. -It belonged to a Rambler,—and that Rambler -was Tom Clifton.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_178">[178]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER XV<br /> - -<span class="small">CAPTURED</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">When</span> Tom Clifton realized the danger that -confronted him he was so taken by surprise -that it was several seconds before he had recovered -sufficient presence of mind to leap aside.</p> - -<p>“Hold on—hold on!” he yelled. “Who -are you?”</p> - -<p>The other threw aside his rifle, but made no -reply. Tom Clifton saw a pair of long arms -outstretched; muscular fingers were ready to -grip him.</p> - -<p>Despite the rapidity of the attack, Tom, by -an adroit movement, eluded his assailant. -The bewilderment which at first had threatened -seriously to interfere with him was gone. -Cool-headed and steady of nerve, he attempted -to leap toward his horse.</p> - -<p>Before he could reach the animal, however, -his mysterious adversary was upon him.</p> - -<p>Desperately Tom Clifton strove to tear away -from the arms which encircled his waist. At<span class="pagenum" id="Page_179">[179]</span> -the high school gymnasium he had learned a -few tricks in wrestling. One of these broke -the hold.</p> - -<p>Then two wildly-struggling figures swayed -back and forth in the hollow, now illuminated -by the faint light which came from the fire, -then, once again, beyond its range, with the -pale rays of the moon sending their shadows -weirdly over the uneven ground.</p> - -<p>What was the object of the attack? Who -could this man be who had crawled up to his -camp and sprung upon him as fiercely as a -wolf? He could find no answer.</p> - -<p>All his strength, skill and cunning responded -to his call. He was outmatched in -strength but not in generalship. His rapid -movements made firelight, horse and trees -appear to be whirling around and around. -Again and again he tore away; again and -again, with the skill of a boxer, he blocked -the hands which attempted to seize him. Once -he was down, sprawling on hands and knees.</p> - -<p>His game defense seemed destined to end -in failure; for, as rapidly as an eagle darts -upon its prey, so did the other follow up his -advantage. Tom Clifton gritted his teeth.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_180">[180]</span> -He heard a cry of exultation. Out of the -corner of his eye he saw the dark figure towering -above him.</p> - -<p>Then, with extraordinary swiftness, he -twisted around and gripped his opponent’s leg -just in time to prevent himself from being -crushed to earth.</p> - -<p>Involuntarily, the enemy straightened up -to keep his balance. And in that instant the -nimble Tom had sprung to his feet.</p> - -<p>“See here,” he managed to gasp between -his labored breathing, “let up! You must -have taken me for some one else.”</p> - -<p>There was no reply.</p> - -<p>“If I could only get to that horse!” thought -Tom.</p> - -<p>He sprang away, with the other lunging -heavily at his heels.</p> - -<p>Dashing madly toward the frightened animal -he loosened the picket pin with a lusty -kick. Then, driven to close quarters, faced -about.</p> - -<p>The fierce struggle was renewed. The -shadows danced faster. The hard, deep breathing -of both grew louder. Only the Rambler’s -speed kept him out of the other’s clutches.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_181">[181]</span> -The realization that once in his enemy’s grip -he would be rendered helpless nerved him to -continue the resistance with all his strength -and resourcefulness.</p> - -<p>The man’s silence, the broad-brimmed hat -pulled low, so as to conceal his features, and -his evident determination to win at all hazards -filled him with an alarm he had never felt -before.</p> - -<p>An idea had occurred to Tom; and, putting -it into execution, he managed to work his way -out of the hollow, at length reaching a point -many yards distant from the camp.</p> - -<p>And now he felt that the instant to make -his decisive stroke had arrived. It was a -stroke which would mean either victory or defeat. -With an abruptness which took his adversary -completely by surprise, the lad swung -to one side; then, with head lowered, made a -mad dash for the camp.</p> - -<p>Never, even in his base stealing for the -“Kingswood High,” had Tom’s legs moved -with such extraordinary rapidity. In his -ears were ringing the heavier footfalls of the -pursuer, who was putting forth every effort to -overtake him.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_182">[182]</span>A last desperate spurt, and Tom was swinging -wildly toward the fire, his eyes fixed on -the horse, which at this abrupt and startling -reappearance of its owner began prancing -about. This still further loosened the picket -pin, and a blow from Tom’s foot as he passed -sent it spinning over the ground.</p> - -<p>A wild leap astride the back of the bridleless -and saddleless horse was made just as the -animal realized its freedom. It was a thrilling -moment, in which a second’s time played -a most important part.</p> - -<p>Gripping the pony’s halter with all his -force, Tom’s free hand came down hard on its -flank. He saw the dark figure almost within -reach, the muscular arm again extended. He -heard a loud: “Whoa—whoa!” come from -the man’s lips.</p> - -<p>But the horse’s legs were already in motion. -It plunged headlong through the underbrush, -grazing a tree and causing the rider narrowly -to escape being swept from its back. Only -Tom’s long apprenticeship in the saddle saved -him. Away he went over the prairie at a -furious gallop, leaving the hollow and his assailant -far in the rear.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_183">[183]</span>Breathless with fatigue and excitement, -Tom Clifton made no attempt to stop the furious -dash of the frightened horse. The cool -night air fanned his cheeks; he felt a sense of -wild exhilaration. The victory was his. -Even in those moments, with the ground slipping -beneath him at terrific speed, he thought -of the sensation his story would create.</p> - -<p>“Get up, old boy, get up!” he yelled. -“Hello—hello!”</p> - -<p>On throwing a glance over his shoulder he -had made an unpleasant discovery—the man -was pursuing him on horseback.</p> - -<p>Tom uttered a shrill whistle.</p> - -<p>“He must have had his nag hidden somewhere -among the trees,” he cried. “Well, -well, this is an adventure, all right! But -he’ll never get within ten yards of me.”</p> - -<p>In the soft light of the moon the prairie -presented a picture of the most poetic charm. -It seemed as though he was plunging ahead -into a land of dreams and unrealities. On -one side the distant hills cut in a broken line -against a sky of bluish green; shadows -wrapped their base in mystery; and on the -other the silent river glimmered faintly between<span class="pagenum" id="Page_184">[184]</span> -the trees or lost its placid surface in -somber grays.</p> - -<p>“Great Cæsar!” muttered the lad, suddenly. -“What’s that?”</p> - -<p>His eye, once more turning far to the rear, -had caught sight of several specks. One -seemed to be a wagon; the others horsemen; -and all were moving slowly in the opposite -direction to which he was going.</p> - -<p>Tom Clifton’s mind immediately became -busy with conjectures.</p> - -<p>“There’s surely something doing out here -to-night,” he thought. “I wonder if that fellow -chasing me doesn’t belong to that party yonder. -Gee whiz! I guess Teddy Banes was -right.”</p> - -<p>When he looked around again a wave of -relief shot through him. The man had evidently -given up the pursuit, for the forms of -horse and rider now appeared considerably -smaller than before.</p> - -<p>“Thank goodness!” exclaimed Tom, fervently.</p> - -<p>The nerve-racking pace, the jolting and -bumping could come to an end. He tugged -and sawed on the bridle; he yelled sharp commands,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_185">[185]</span> -or uttered soothing words. But a -spirit of madness seemed to have gripped the -horse. With eyes distended, and snorting -from fear, the animal was beyond all control.</p> - -<p>“Running away!” cried Tom. “Great -Scott!”</p> - -<p>His nerves, already wrought to a high pitch -of tension, tingled anew. The objects moving -so rapidly past were making a sense of dizziness -come over him. A fear, too, that his -horse might stumble and he be thrown headlong -set him to work desperately on the halter -again.</p> - -<p>And while he was doing this with every -ounce of strength at his command two horsemen -suddenly rode into view from a patch of -timber only a short distance to the right.</p> - -<p>Tom was now too much occupied, too -shaken up and jolted about to have left any -room for surprise. He heard, sounding above -the clatter of his horse’s hoofs, a cry, loud and -peremptory—a ringing command to halt.</p> - -<p>At the risk of being thrown, he managed to -look behind.</p> - -<p>The newcomers had spurred up their -mounts and were racing toward him at a<span class="pagenum" id="Page_186">[186]</span> -whirlwind pace. Visions of falling into the -hands of a band of desperate men flashed into -his mind. The stern order to stop came again -and again.</p> - -<p>The Rambler made no reply. He no longer -sought to control his horse; but, bending far -over on its neck, and, riding with the skill of -a cowboy, awaited developments with a fast-beating -heart.</p> - -<p>And developments speedily came. The two -horsemen were thundering nearer.</p> - -<p>“Stop—stop, I say!” yelled one.</p> - -<p>“Hold on, or it will be the worse for you!” -cried the other.</p> - -<p>What could it mean? Were his adventures -never to end? No matter how hard Tom -tried he was helpless to shape events. He -realized, too, with a sinking heart, that the -exertions of his horse were fast telling on -him; he was slackening speed. The furious -race must soon end.</p> - -<p>One backward glance showed him the foremost -of the horsemen almost upon him. -From out of the corner of his eye he could -see the blurred outlines of a man leaning forward -with arm outstretched ready to grasp<span class="pagenum" id="Page_187">[187]</span> -the halter of his flying steed. His gray -shadow shot in advance; then, neck and -neck, the animals tore across the prairie, leaving -a wake of trampled grass and sometimes -a flattened bush behind them.</p> - -<p>“I’ve got you, feller!” exclaimed a voice. -“You wouldn’t stop, eh?”</p> - -<p>His hand shot across the few inches necessary, -gripping the halter with a strength that -could not be shaken.</p> - -<p>As the horses slackened speed the second -rider swung around to Tom’s left. He, too, -in another instant, placed his hand on the -leather straps. Aching in every joint, with -the breath nearly shaken out of his body, -Tom Clifton felt unable to utter a word when -muscular arms, with a final tug, brought the -animal to a full stop.</p> - -<p>“Now I reckon you’ll come to your senses!” -exclaimed the man who had spoken before.</p> - -<p>Tom Clifton straightened up to glance into -his captor’s face, which was clearly revealed -by the light of the moon.</p> - -<p>For a second he seemed dumfounded into -silence; then a cry of astonishment came from -his lips.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_188">[188]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER XVI<br /> - -<span class="small">THE LOADED WAGON</span></h2> -</div> - -<p>“<span class="smcap">Billy Ashe</span>!” exclaimed Tom Clifton, -in the greatest amazement, when his breath -and the excited state of his feelings permitted -him to speak.</p> - -<p>The trooper seemed to be fully as astonished -as the Rambler.</p> - -<p>“You—you!” he cried. “What in thunder -are you doing out on the plains at this -time of night? And riding a horse without -saddle or bridle?” His voice became sharp -and angry. “Confound it, fellow, you’ve -spoilt the whole business!”</p> - -<p>“What do you mean?” demanded Tom.</p> - -<p>“You’ve made us lose valuable time, besides -yelling our heads off to get you to stop. Don’t -you know how far such sounds travel in the -night?”</p> - -<p>“My horse was running away,” snapped -Tom. “Didn’t you have sense enough to -know it?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_189">[189]</span>“Ah! That was the trouble, eh?” exclaimed -the other policeman. “We’ve been -stalking big game, an’ took you to be one of -’em.”</p> - -<p>“Smugglers?” queried Tom, excitedly.</p> - -<p>“Where’s the rest of your crowd?” queried -Ashe, abruptly. “Give an account of yourself—fast, -too. We haven’t an instant to -spare.”</p> - -<p>His peremptory tone jarred harshly on Tom -Clifton’s sensibilities, especially after all the -excitement he had gone through. But, excusing -it on the ground of the urgency of the -policeman’s business, the lad, in brief sentences, -told his story.</p> - -<p>“I knew it!” exclaimed Billy Ashe, almost -violently, as the last words fell from his lips. -“One of the nicest bits of police work that’s -been done for months all gone for nothing -because a nervy kid just bobs up in time to -spoil it.”</p> - -<p>“How have I done anything to hinder -you?” demanded Tom, as angrily as the -trooper.</p> - -<p>“But for you we could have tracked the -slickest band of smugglers in Canada to their<span class="pagenum" id="Page_190">[190]</span> -destination. We’ve been on their trail for -hours.”</p> - -<p>“You haven’t lost much time on me.”</p> - -<p>“That isn’t the point. That fellow back -there who was watching you didn’t intend to -take any chances of your prying into their -game. Now, you may be sure, he’s put the -others on their guard.”</p> - -<p>“Aye, aye!” agreed the other trooper.</p> - -<p>Billy Ashe, a very ambitious young officer, -was becoming even more angry and disgusted. -After much patient work, he saw all his efforts -threatened with failure. Since entering the -service he had always kept in mind the idea -of some day wearing a sergeant’s stripes on -the sleeves of his scarlet coat. And on this -particular job the trooper had visions of receiving -warm commendations from his superior -officers. Tom Clifton had never impressed -him favorably; and now, although the tall -lad could not be directly blamed, his presence -at a critical time irritated him, driving away -for the moment the natural sympathy he -should have felt.</p> - -<p>Tom, however, was not looking for any. But -he didn’t propose to shoulder undeserved blame.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_191">[191]</span>“If you’ve made a fluke on the job,” he -exclaimed, hotly, “it’s just exactly as you -said yourself: your own shouting must have -done it.”</p> - -<p>“I’ll put it all up to Sergeant Erskine,” -exclaimed Billy Ashe. “And when he gets -my report I’d advise you to keep far away -from the barracks.”</p> - -<p>“Aye, aye!” said the other trooper.</p> - -<p>“Oh, that doesn’t scare me a little bit,” -jeered Tom. “I’ll make a report to Sergeant -Erskine myself.”</p> - -<p>With a sharp command to his horse, Ashe -galloped off.</p> - -<p>“Come on, Witmar!” he yelled. “We’ll -get the wagon, anyway.”</p> - -<p>“Aye, aye!” answered his companion.</p> - -<p>“Guess I’ll follow this thing up myself,” -muttered Tom. “Great Scott! Just think—I’m -going to take part in a chase after smugglers!”</p> - -<p>This thought was enough to stifle his angry -feelings, and make him disregard the shooting -pains which were now becoming stronger.</p> - -<p>“Get up!” he yelled; “get up!”</p> - -<p>Although being without saddle or bridle<span class="pagenum" id="Page_192">[192]</span> -placed him at a great disadvantage, his horse -was a swift, fiery creature—a bundle of high-strung -nerves, ready to dash off at headlong -pace upon the slightest provocation.</p> - -<p>“They won’t leave me very far behind,” -muttered Tom, grimly. “I can guide this -nag by knee-pressure as well as any cowboy.”</p> - -<p>The Northwest Mounted policemen, who -seemed to have given up hope of capturing -the smugglers, rode furiously. At the pace -they set there was great danger of Tom’s -horse running away again. The Rambler -knew this, and though in a reckless and -determined spirit, kept all his faculties alert. -The wind was rushing by him once more. -An occasional bush seemed to spring up before -his path and be sent flying behind. He saw -his shadow slipping over the ground, waving -and wobbling curiously as it passed over the -inequalities.</p> - -<p>And presently a tiny glow showed him his -own camp-fire.</p> - -<p>“Wish I had time to skip over for my saddle -and bridle,” he thought; “but business just -now is too pressing.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_193">[193]</span>The light of his fire quickly faded from -view; new scenes sprang up before him. The -hills approached a little nearer to the river. -Steep and precipitous they were at this point, -and grimly dark, sending a delicate shadow -over the silvery gray of the prairie.</p> - -<p>The policemen had, naturally, increased -their lead, although Tom strove hard to close -up the gap between them. From the shaggy -sides of his horse rose clouds of steam; the -pony’s eyes were distended, his ears thrown -back. He seemed to be on the point of bolting -again, when the lad, eagerly gazing over -the landscape, saw a dark spot coming into -view.</p> - -<p>“The wagon!” he exclaimed.</p> - -<p>Billy Ashe and his companions were thundering -over the prairie as fast as their horses -could take them. And now, as the distance -was being cut down with remarkable rapidity, -the canvas-covered wagon began to show -clearly in the moonlight. But there were no -indications of horsemen near.</p> - -<p>Billy Ashe was evidently right. Tom’s appearance -on the scene had resulted in the men’s -becoming alarmed and abandoning the vehicle.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_194">[194]</span> -The two policemen soon covered the -last stretch, and jumped from the saddle.</p> - -<p>Scarcely had their investigations been begun -when Tom Clifton clattered up, sawing -away on the halter and yelling sharp commands -to his horse.</p> - -<p>“Well, if this chap hasn’t the biggest nerve -I ever heard of!” cried Ashe.</p> - -<p>“They have flown, eh?” exclaimed Tom, -when at length he managed to conquer his -fractious steed.</p> - -<p>“I should think they have flown!” growled -the trooper, his eyes flashing angrily. “When -a man wants a nice piece of beefsteak he isn’t -satisfied with gravy. We were after the men—not -a wagon-load of contraband stuff, eh, -Witmar?”</p> - -<p>“Aye, aye!” said his companion.</p> - -<p>“You can’t put the blame on me,” cried -Tom, hotly.</p> - -<p>“I do—and so will the sergeant.”</p> - -<p>“Get out! This is a free country, isn’t it?”</p> - -<p>“It’s not free for any one to interfere with -the business of the Northwest Mounted.”</p> - -<p>“What’s in that old chuck wagon?” demanded -Tom, impatiently.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_195">[195]</span>Witmar had pulled open the flap, and, by -the aid of a pocket search-light, was examining -some of the contents.</p> - -<p>“We are not supposed to answer questions -put to us by strangers,” interposed Ashe, who -was in such a disappointed frame of mind that -he found it hard to speak with civility. -“Come—get out. What do you want to do—take -charge of the wagon—and us besides?”</p> - -<p>“Aye, aye! I reckon he’d like to,” said -Witmar.</p> - -<p>“Is this a private park?” demanded Tom. -“Where are the ‘keep off the grass’ signs? -Have you any authority over me?”</p> - -<p>“I have authority to arrest any one who interferes -with us,” returned Ashe, threateningly. -“There’s many an old stager on the -force who might run you over to the barracks -if you didn’t light out the moment he said the -word.”</p> - -<p>“Aye, aye! I’ve seen it done,” said Witmar.</p> - -<p>“Well, you won’t see it done in this case!” -cried Tom, wrathfully. “You’re supposed to -protect people. How do I know that the fellow -who pitched into me isn’t lying around<span class="pagenum" id="Page_196">[196]</span> -somewhere ready to tackle the job again just -as soon as I stray far enough away from the -Mounted Police, eh?”</p> - -<p>“There’s reason in that,” said Witmar.</p> - -<p>Billy Ashe did not reply. Although the -smugglers had escaped there was still much -work to be done. The contraband goods would -have to be conveyed to the settlement, where -a police post was located; and that meant one -of them would have to remain on guard while -the other went in search of a team.</p> - -<p>“Where do you suppose this wagon was -bound?” asked Tom.</p> - -<p>“That’s what we should have found out but -for you,” growled Ashe. “Once these chaps -know we’re hot on their trail they’ll keep under -cover, maybe for months.”</p> - -<p>The two troopers climbed into the wagon, -and from bits of conversation which Tom now -and then overheard he felt sure they had -made a valuable find of contraband goods.</p> - -<p>The canvas-covered vehicle, resting motionless -upon the prairie, with its deep shadow -cutting over the ground, produced a singularly -picturesque effect. The soft moonlight, -too, added an impressive appearance of size.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_197">[197]</span> -To Tom Clifton’s mind it vaguely suggested -some huge monster brought to bay and rendered -helpless.</p> - -<p>He wondered in which direction the men -and horses had gone. He carefully studied -the landscape, the hills, the obscure distance -touched with faint lights and delicate shades. -Somewhere in that great expanse were concealed -the forms so eagerly sought.</p> - -<p>Then, in another moment, the channel of -his thoughts was rudely changed. A horseman, -galloping hard, suddenly appeared. He -was headed directly for the wagon.</p> - -<p>At the same instant the troopers also discovered -him.</p> - -<p>“Well, did you ever!” cried Tom, excitedly. -“What in thunder——”</p> - -<p>Ashe and Witmar sprang to the ground.</p> - -<p>“He’ll have to give a good account of himself!” -cried the former. “After him, Witmar!”</p> - -<p>Their precaution, however, was unnecessary, -for the oncoming rider made no effort to -change his course.</p> - -<p>Not a sound came from the three as they -watched him coming nearer and nearer, until<span class="pagenum" id="Page_198">[198]</span> -at length his figure was clearly in view. Then -Tom Clifton uttered a shout of surprise and -exultation.</p> - -<p>“By George—if this isn’t the greatest piece -of luck I ever heard of!” he yelled, almost -wildly. “By all that’s wonderful, it’s Larry -Burnham!”</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_199">[199]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER XVII<br /> - -<span class="small">THE WHOLE CROWD</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">It</span> was, indeed, the big Wisconsin lad. And -although Larry felt almost staggered by surprise -he overcame it by a tremendous effort.</p> - -<p>“Good-evening, Tom,” he exclaimed, pulling -up his horse with a jerk; “I thought I’d -run over with these things. They seem to belong -to you.” Whereupon he lowered to the -ground Tom Clifton’s property.</p> - -<p>Tom, not to be outdone, controlled his own -astonishment.</p> - -<p>“Thanks, Larry,” he said. “I was in a -bit of a hurry, and so left ’em behind.”</p> - -<p>“Why, these chaps seem to be spread out -all over the prairie,” exclaimed Ashe.</p> - -<p>“Aye, aye!” laughed Witmar.</p> - -<p>Of course neither of the boys could restrain -their impatience long. Larry simply burned -with curiosity to learn what had taken place, -and Tom was equally anxious to hear about<span class="pagenum" id="Page_200">[200]</span> -“Little Fear-not’s” adventures. He even forgot -to be disgusted with the big lad; while -Larry, in his excitement and jubilation, entirely -lost sight of his previous chagrin and -disappointment.</p> - -<p>The boys’ tongues flew rapidly. Larry -touched but lightly upon his dismay at finding -himself cut off from the settlement by the -river; nor did he mention the dreadful moments -passed behind the shelter of the bushes. -Indeed one might have supposed that observing -the movements of smugglers on a moonlight -night was quite the most enjoyable thing -in the world.</p> - -<p>And at any other time he would have burst -into peals of laughter at Tom’s thrilling description -of his struggle with the mysterious -assailant. But, under the circumstances, he -was tremendously impressed with the seriousness -of the encounter. In fact the two big -lads seemed to have reached a better understanding -of one another than they had ever -had before.</p> - -<p>“I was a dub to want to leave you chaps,” -said Larry, candidly. “Jolly fine for you to -come after me, Tom, an’ I won’t forget it.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_201">[201]</span>“We couldn’t think of losing such good -company,” laughed the Rambler.</p> - -<p>“Well, fellows,” put in Billy Ashe, “you’ve -had a pretty lively night of it. Now I’m going -to skip.”</p> - -<p>“Where to?” asked Tom, interestedly.</p> - -<p>“Over to the settlement. Witmar’ll stay -here to guard the wagon.”</p> - -<p>“Aye, aye!” said Witmar. “And a tiresome -job, I call it.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, we’ll stick by you,” said Tom. “Good -company always seems to make the time pass -faster.”</p> - -<p>“How are you going to get across the river, -Mr. Ashe?” asked Larry.</p> - -<p>“Easy enough. The horse can wade. It -isn’t over a man’s waist line.”</p> - -<p>“Goodness gracious,” muttered Larry.</p> - -<p>He felt half ashamed and half amused when -he reflected how completely he had allowed -the stream to block his plans.</p> - -<p>“Still, it may be for the best,” he thought. -“Honestly, I believe this experience has done -me a pile of good. Besides, I’ve learned what -a fine chap Tom Clifton really is.”</p> - -<p>Billy Ashe, who had been conversing earnestly<span class="pagenum" id="Page_202">[202]</span> -with Witmar, suddenly sang out: “So-long, -fellows! Maybe I’ll see you again.”</p> - -<p>“You certainly will,” laughed Tom. “Good-bye, -and good luck!”</p> - -<p>“Exactly my sentiments, too,” cried Larry.</p> - -<p>The lads eyed the form of the trooper, rapidly -growing smaller in the distance; then, -when a patch of timber finally hid him from -view, dismounted and picketed their horses.</p> - -<p>“It’s a long time before daylight,” said -Witmar. “I’d advise you to take a snooze.”</p> - -<p>At first neither of the boys felt disposed to -accept his suggestion. The excitement of the -night had affected their nerves to too great an -extent. But finally tiring of walking up and -down, or endeavoring to draw the silent policeman -into conversation, they spread out -their blankets and lay down.</p> - -<p>Tom was continually finding something -new to relate about his adventures, and Larry, -also, discovered several points he had omitted. -Gradually, however, under the influence of -the silent, peaceful night, their lively tongues -began to be heard less and less, and in another -hour Witmar alone was awake.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_203">[203]</span></p> - -<div class="figcenter"><img src="images/p202.jpg" alt="" /></div> -<p class="caption">THE WHOLE CROWD WAS THERE</p> - -<p>To Tom Clifton it seemed but an instant -when his slumber was broken by the sound of -voices and pounding of horses’ hoofs. He -had a dim consciousness that this was but the -part of a dream, until Witmar’s voice, raised -as though in a loud hail, effectually startled -sleep from his heavy eyes.</p> - -<p>Tossing aside the blanket, he rose to a sitting -position, then uttered a loud exclamation.</p> - -<p>Several horsemen, riding at a good pace, -were bearing down directly upon the wagon, -and, to his unbounded amazement and delight, -he recognized in the foremost the sturdy, -athletic form of Bob Somers.</p> - -<p>With a yell as loud as any Indian war-whoop -the Rambler sprang to his feet, in his haste -almost sprawling over the prostrate form of -Larry Burnham, who, aroused in this startling -fashion, added a weird cry to the din. This -was about the last thing in the world the blond -lad had expected.</p> - -<p>He rubbed his eyes. Could it be possible? -Yes, the whole crowd was there. The early -morning sunlight bathed them in a rosy glow, -while from revolvers and horses’ trappings -came flashes and streaks of gleaming light.</p> - -<p>“Bob Somers!” cried the delighted Tom,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_204">[204]</span> -darting forward. “Great Scott, but this is -jolly—a glorious surprise!”</p> - -<p>“Aye, aye! It certainly is,” admitted Witmar.</p> - -<p>“I’m nearly bowled over!” cried Larry.</p> - -<p>A chorus of salutations came from the newcomers. -They were all in a hilarious frame of -mind. Thunderbolt’s coppery-hued visage, -too, expressed the pleasure he felt.</p> - -<p>“Didn’t expect us, eh?” laughed Bob. -“Mighty glad to see you, Larry.”</p> - -<p>Larry Burnham felt decidedly sheepish, for -he realized that he had put the crowd to a -great deal of trouble.</p> - -<p>“They must think I played a mighty mean -trick on ’em,” he mentally concluded. -“Hang it all, I don’t see why I ever did such -a thing!”</p> - -<p>He waited in anticipation of either complaint -or sarcastic remarks, but, to his surprise -and gratitude, none came.</p> - -<p>Of course it was some time before the excitement -quieted down, and the Ramblers, -on foot, gathered by the side of the wagon. -Trooper Witmar surveyed the crowd with a -quizzical smile.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_205">[205]</span>“One might think,” he remarked, “that -you chaps hadn’t seen each other for a -month.”</p> - -<p>“I guess it does look that way,” laughed -Dave. He glanced at Tom. “I guess you’ve -had a rather quiet time of it, eh?”</p> - -<p>“Quiet time!” cried Tom. “Well, I -rather think not! I had the fight of my -life.”</p> - -<p>This startling announcement immediately -brought to a stop a volley of inquiries relative -to the wagon and the presence of the trooper. -Dick Travers, who had just uttered the word -“Smugglers!” echoing a terse observation of -the policeman, turned to stare at Tom in the -utmost amazement.</p> - -<p>“A scrap—a real scrap?” he cried, wonderingly.</p> - -<p>“It certainly was a real scrap!” And -Tom, who hugely enjoyed the sensation he -had created, launched forth.</p> - -<p>His tale held his listeners spellbound; and -this time the Rambler did not forget a single -point.</p> - -<p>Numerous were the exclamations which -punctuated his remarks.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_206">[206]</span>“Well, that’s certainly a story with a punch -to it!” cried Dick Travers.</p> - -<p>Tom was bombarded with questions. The -minutest particulars were insistently demanded. -Like a lawyer cross-examining a -witness, Sam Randall drew from him all the -particulars he could in regard to his mysterious -assailant.</p> - -<p>“My, what a pity you didn’t get a good view -of the fellow’s face,” he exclaimed, finally. -“Think you’d recognize him again?”</p> - -<p>“You bet!” cried Tom—“and lined up -among a dozen.”</p> - -<p>The crowd was not satisfied until Larry -Burnham’s experiences were related; and not -once during the whole recital did they make -any unfavorable comment. Of course Larry -could see that all this must have been arranged -beforehand; but it increased his feeling of -gratitude, especially as his companions highly -praised his action in so courageously following -the three riders.</p> - -<p>“After such thrilling tales our own seems -tame enough,” said Bob. “Several hours after -you had gone, Tom, as things began to get -rather dull, we decided to make a run over to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_207">[207]</span> -the settlement ourselves. We camped on those -hills yonder for the night. Sam, who was -the early morning watch, sighted the wagon—you -know the rest.”</p> - -<p>“You’re a great lot,” laughed Witmar. -“What’s the next thing you’re going to be up -to?”</p> - -<p>“I heard there’s been quite a bit of cattle -rustling going on around here. So I suppose -there must be ranch-houses within easy riding -distance?”</p> - -<p>“Aye, aye!” said Witmar. “The nearest -is Jerry Duncan’s. A fine chap he is, too. -Jerry’s lost quite a bunch of steers.”</p> - -<p>“If there’s a house so close I propose we call -on the owner,” put in Dave Brandon. “After -such a long ride we ought to have a good rest -before going on our trip to the border.”</p> - -<p>The thought of a nice big room proved so -irresistible to the comfort-loving Dave that he -spoke eloquently on the subject. And the -crowd, never liking to go against his wishes, -finally put the question to a vote.</p> - -<p>Tom, notwithstanding his anxiety to reach -their destination, cast his ballot for the affirmative -side, remarking:</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_208">[208]</span>“Who knows, fellows, perhaps Jerry Duncan -may be able to give us some information -about Jed Warren?”</p> - -<p>Policeman Witmar, who had heard from -Billy Ashe all about the amazing search of -the Ramblers, much to the tall boy’s astonishment -guffawed loudly.</p> - -<p>“Well?” demanded Tom, in his gruffest -voice.</p> - -<p>Witmar diplomatically evaded a direct -answer.</p> - -<p>“There are lots of ranchmen and cowpunchers -over in that direction who knew -Jed Warren,” he said.</p> - -<p>“That settles it,” declared Tom. “I’m -glad we’re going.”</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_209">[209]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER XVIII<br /> - -<span class="small">ASKING QUESTIONS</span></h2> -</div> - -<p>“<span class="smcap">If</span> you chaps are pining for adventure this -certainly doesn’t look much like it,” remarked -Larry Burnham.</p> - -<p>The seven, led by Thunderbolt, were traveling -in the direction of Jerry Duncan’s ranch.</p> - -<p>“You never can tell,” grinned Dick.</p> - -<p>“I’m afraid the Rambler Club won’t solve -any mysteries on this trip,” insisted Larry.</p> - -<p>“Don’t you fool yourself,” retorted Tom. -“Wait and see.”</p> - -<p>In another half hour the lads were approaching -a range of hills, rather higher and -wilder-looking than any encountered before. -Great numbers of cattle bearing Jerry Duncan’s -brand grazing on the plain and up over -the slopes gave a cheering indication that -somewhere among the rolling ridges his ranch-house -was located.</p> - -<p>Thunderbolt assured them that any one unacquainted<span class="pagenum" id="Page_210">[210]</span> -with the topography of the country -would have a hard task to find it.</p> - -<p>“Why in the dickens did they ever build -in such a place?” cried Tom.</p> - -<p>“Much nice,” said Thunderbolt. “In winter -wind no so strong. A creek close by and -many trees.”</p> - -<p>After skirting the hills for about a mile the -young Indian halted, and pointed to a deeply-shadowed -break in their rugged slopes.</p> - -<p>“We go through pass,” he explained.</p> - -<p>“It’s a rather wild-looking place,” commented -Dave.</p> - -<p>“I sort o’ think it’ll make me wild to ride -through it,” murmured Larry.</p> - -<p>In spite of his lesson he felt discontented feelings -coming over him again. He longed for -the camping-out time to arrive, when, lolling -in the pleasant shade of some tree, he could -read, or otherwise amuse himself.</p> - -<p>On all sides of the gorge, which the lads -soon entered, was a beaten trail made by the -passing of countless horses and cattle. Though -often turned aside by grim-looking boulders, -groups of stunted trees, or thickets, they made -good progress.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_211">[211]</span>“I see it,” sang out Tom.</p> - -<p>Just above a jutting crag the upper part of -the ranch-house, glowing in the sun, had appeared -to his eagerly searching vision.</p> - -<p>“Jerry Duncan’s!” exclaimed Thunderbolt.</p> - -<p>“Hooray!” cried Tom, spurring his horse -into a gallop.</p> - -<p>Now over a smooth grassy stretch, the seven -swung along, and, sweeping around a rocky -barrier, saw the solid, substantial home of -Jerry Duncan rising before them. It was surrounded -by a wide, cozy-looking porch, and -not far in the rear stood a commodious stable.</p> - -<p>Resting in a cup-shaped enclosure between -the hills, the ranch-house suggested a pleasing -retreat. The shadow of the opposite range -was already beginning to steal across the -grassy floor over which a number of horses -and cattle were grazing. At their rapid approach -the deep baying of a dog chained to a -post echoed startlingly clear.</p> - -<p>On the instant two men came running out -of the house.</p> - -<p>“Hello!” yelled Bob Somers. “Is Mr. -Duncan in?”</p> - -<p>A short, stout man, whose face, deeply<span class="pagenum" id="Page_212">[212]</span> -browned by exposure to the weather, wore a -most jovial expression, spoke up.</p> - -<p>“My name’s Duncan,” he exclaimed. “For -gracious sakes, boys, who are you, and——”</p> - -<p>“I’ll finish the sentence,” laughed Tom. -“Where do you come from? I never saw a -parcel of boys traveling over the country like -this before.”</p> - -<p>“Exactly; you couldn’t have hit it better.”</p> - -<p>The lads did not lose any time in acquainting -Mr. Duncan and his cowpuncher with -enough information to satisfy their curiosity.</p> - -<p>“Jed Warren!” exclaimed the ranchman -reflectively. “Why, to be sure, I know him. -He was often around these hills, and, excepting -for the border patrol which you mention, -the very last man to see him was a chap back -there.”</p> - -<p>A comprehensive wave of the hand indicated -that “back there” meant the same direction -in which the boys had been traveling.</p> - -<p>“What’s his name?” asked Tom, eagerly.</p> - -<p>“Oscar Lawton. How far is it? Oh, about -five miles. Easy to get there? Yes—in an -aeroplane.”</p> - -<p>The good-natured cattleman laughed.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_213">[213]</span>“Let’s take a chance on it, fellows,” cried -Tom, eagerly.</p> - -<p>“Oh—oh! Just listen to him!” groaned -Larry.</p> - -<p>“A good detective never allows a single -clue to get by him,” insisted Tom, with an air -of superior wisdom.</p> - -<p>“Oh, yes; I suppose that settles it,” returned -Larry, wearily.</p> - -<p>“I agree with Tom,” remarked Sam Randall. -“Since we started out on this job let’s -be able to say that everything possible has -been done to clear it up.”</p> - -<p>“That’s the idea!” exclaimed Bob, heartily.</p> - -<p>“You’d better come in and rest for a while,” -said Mr. Duncan, “and get a bite to eat.”</p> - -<p>“Joy—oh, joy!” murmured Larry. “Of -course we will.”</p> - -<p>After spending over an hour in the pleasant -shade of the porch, indulging in roast beef -sandwiches, plenty of coffee and other good -things, the crowd voiced an emphatic vote of -thanks.</p> - -<p>The cattleman insisted on their coming -again. “Because,” explained Mr. Duncan, -with a rather suspicious twinkle in his eye,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_214">[214]</span> -“I want to know how this detective work of -yours turns out.”</p> - -<p>“We’ll certainly drop around and tell you,” -cried Bob, heartily.</p> - -<p>Then began a long, tedious march over high -ridges where nature seemed to have put up -many barriers, not only to endanger the safety -but also to wear out the patience of unwary -travelers. The young Cree, however, proved -himself to be a most excellent guide. No -difficulty was too great for him to overcome; -and, as little time was lost in detours, the -ranch-house for which they were seeking came -into view long before Larry Burnham had -expected.</p> - -<p>The building rested in a broad, grass-covered -valley almost midway between the hills. And -on nearer approach its rather neglected appearance -became strikingly evident.</p> - -<p>But the boys, weary with their long ride, -paid no attention to this. They were too -eager to meet the owner, and then continue on -their long journey southward to the border. -A great disappointment awaited them, however.</p> - -<p>Oscar Lawton, they were informed by<span class="pagenum" id="Page_215">[215]</span> -several men lounging about, was miles away -on the open range. And none could state the -exact time of his return.</p> - -<p>“Oh, this is perfectly awful!” cried Larry -Burnham, in exasperation. “Won’t it ever -end?”</p> - -<p>“Jed Warren!” exclaimed one of the men, -in answer to a question. “No; we don’t -know nothin’ about Jed Warren. What in -thunder are you fellers expectin’ to do—ketch -up with that there scarlet jacket?”</p> - -<p>“Our expectations cannot be measured in -words,” drawled Larry.</p> - -<p>“Is there another ranch near by?” asked -Bob.</p> - -<p>“Oh, yes; there’s several of ’em hereabouts,” -answered a cowpuncher.</p> - -<p>“Well, then, let’s go to one or two more, -fellows,” suggested Tom Clifton. “If Mr. -Lawton saw Jed perhaps some other people -have, too.”</p> - -<p>“Ah! Much good,” approved Thunderbolt. -“Sure! Maybe we learn somethings.”</p> - -<p>As long as they remained in sight the cowpunchers -kept waving their hands in farewell.</p> - -<p>“I don’t suppose you chaps feel a bit discouraged<span class="pagenum" id="Page_216">[216]</span> -even yet,” said Larry, satirically. -“I’d call this perseverance and perversity.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, we’ve just begun,” chirped Tom.</p> - -<p>Another long ride followed. Sometimes -the lads traveled over hills; then, again, across -the undulating plain, or forded narrow streams. -And Larry was as hopelessly mixed on their -location as a boy could be. Herds of grazing -cattle were often encountered, and left behind.</p> - -<p>Even the sanguine, hopeful Tom began to -lose his accustomed air of cheerfulness after -several ranches had been visited without a -scrap of information being gained. Things -were not breaking very well, he reflected; -and it made him feel angry and disgusted -indeed.</p> - -<p>“We go some more ranches?” asked -Thunderbolt. “Not many mile from Jerry -Duncan’s is one. What you say?”</p> - -<p>“Don’t ask, but just go,” said Larry. “And -when we get through there take a short cut to -the next.”</p> - -<p>Some time later they came once more in -sight of the range of hills in which Duncan’s -ranch was situated, though at a point considerably -further to the east. The late afternoon<span class="pagenum" id="Page_217">[217]</span> -sun sent a mellow glow over the landscape, -touching boughs and branches with golden -luster, and sending long purplish shadows -down the slopes or trailing over the ground.</p> - -<p>“No far now,” announced Thunderbolt.</p> - -<p>He swerved to the right, leading them -toward the base of a hill which jutted out a -considerable distance on the prairie.</p> - -<p>“And I, for one, propose to stay there for -the night, if the owner is willing,” announced -Dave.</p> - -<p>“I’ll back you up,” cried Larry. “Who -runs this ranch, Thunderbolt?”</p> - -<p>“Him called Hank Styles,” answered the -young Cree.</p> - -<p>“And I do certainly hope to goodness Hank -is in,” said Tom.</p> - -<p>“He hasn’t much of a looking ranch-house,” -remarked Bob, as the building gradually -came into view.</p> - -<p>Certainly the abode of Hank Styles and his -cowpunchers was not calculated to impress the -visitors with favor. It had a crumbling, -neglected appearance. Everything about the -place suggested age and decay.</p> - -<p>“I hope Mr. Styles doesn’t correspond in<span class="pagenum" id="Page_218">[218]</span> -looks to his building,” remarked Sam Randall. -“If he does, perhaps we’d better keep -on to Jerry Duncan’s.”</p> - -<p>“So say I,” laughed Bob.</p> - -<p>“Ah! He come now,” said Thunderbolt, -suddenly. “Him much little fellow.”</p> - -<p>A man had appeared in the doorway, and -after gazing long and earnestly at the approaching -horsemen, stepped down and walked -toward them with long, swinging strides.</p> - -<p>“Thank goodness,” exclaimed Tom. “In -luck at last. Good-afternoon, Mr. Styles,” he -added, raising his voice. “We’ve come to see -you on important business. What do you -know about Jed Warren?”</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_219">[219]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER XIX<br /> - -<span class="small">BOB RIDES ALONE</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">The</span> ranchman, at this salutation, stopped -short and stood looking fixedly at them.</p> - -<p>“How do you do, sir?” said Dave, politely.</p> - -<p>“Well, what do you want?” demanded -Hank Styles. “What do you want, I say?”</p> - -<p>There was such ungraciousness expressed in -his manner and tone that the boys felt considerably -surprised—a surprise which prevented -them from replying until the ranchman -had spoken again.</p> - -<p>“Can’t you answer a civil question?” -he snarled.</p> - -<p>“We are looking for Jed Warren,” explained -Bob Somers, “and thought possibly -you might know something about him.”</p> - -<p>“Jed Warren!” repeated the man. “What -should I know about Jed Warren?”</p> - -<p>“Didn’t you ever meet him—a mounted -policeman?” cried Tom.</p> - -<p>“Well, I’ve seen lots of the redcoats around;<span class="pagenum" id="Page_220">[220]</span> -an’ maybe I have, an’ maybe I haven’t. Who -sent you here?”</p> - -<p>“Nobody sent us.”</p> - -<p>“Well, then, you’d better go away. Ask -somebody else.”</p> - -<p>“See here, Mr. Styles,” interposed Dave, -“would you have any objection to our resting -a short time in your house?”</p> - -<p>This request brought a sudden change of -expression into the ranchman’s face.</p> - -<p>Of all the boys lined up before Mr. Styles -no one was surveying the situation more -keenly than Tom Clifton. He was vaguely -impressed with a feeling that something was -behind the man’s peculiar manner; and this -idea growing, as ideas usually did with Tom, -he sprang to the ground, exclaiming:</p> - -<p>“A good scheme, Dave. No objections, I -suppose, Mr. Styles? Come on, fellows!”</p> - -<p>“How long are you going to hang around -these parts?” demanded Styles.</p> - -<p>“Some considerable time,” replied Tom, -greatly to the astonishment and disgust of -Larry Burnham; “and we’re going to camp -right within sight of your ranch-house. It’s -dangerous out on the plains after dark. I<span class="pagenum" id="Page_221">[221]</span> -was attacked the other night; and if I ever -run across the chap who did it he’ll get all -that’s coming to him.”</p> - -<p>Then, while the occupant of the ranch eyed -him with a peculiarly sinister expression, -Tom began striding toward the dilapidated -building.</p> - -<p>“Hold on, there!” The command came -sharp and peremptory. “You’re in an awful -big hurry, ain’t you? Can’t even wait till a -man tells you he’s ready!”</p> - -<p>“Better picket your horse, Tom,” cautioned -Sam Randall.</p> - -<p>Bob Somers, viewing the trend of affairs -with considerable surprise, exchanged a significant -look with Dave, who immediately -eased himself from his saddle with a sigh of -relief.</p> - -<p>“I’ll follow your example, Tom,” said the -writer, as the tall boy drove in a picket pin.</p> - -<p>“So shall I,” said Bob.</p> - -<p>Larry Burnham was considerably astonished -also, but in a different way. He regarded -the action of the Ramblers as a decidedly -cool proceeding. Here they were practically -forcing themselves upon a man whose<span class="pagenum" id="Page_222">[222]</span> -every action indicated that their presence was -by no means welcome.</p> - -<p>“I don’t wonder Hank Styles looks a bit -peeved,” he reflected. “Gee! It’s certainly -awful nerve on their part.”</p> - -<p>“The house ain’t in no condition to receive -visitors,” explained the ranchman.</p> - -<p>“Oh, no matter,” said Tom.</p> - -<p>“Yes, but it does matter. You can just -stay here until I get things in a little more -ship-shape order—understan’?”</p> - -<p>Without ceremony, Hank Styles abruptly -turned and reëntered the house.</p> - -<p>“You’re a jolly nice lot,” began Larry.</p> - -<p>“Just close down on any talk of that sort,” -snapped Tom. “Don’t you see something -queer in the way that man’s acting?”</p> - -<p>“I don’t wonder at it, after the way you’re -actin’.”</p> - -<p>“You leave things to us.”</p> - -<p>The blond lad looked at Tom in wonderment.</p> - -<p>“What’s the matter?” he demanded.</p> - -<p>“I’m not saying anything,” answered Tom.</p> - -<p>“That’s the way the rest ought to do,” said -Dave. “Keep cool, Tom. You know jumping<span class="pagenum" id="Page_223">[223]</span> -at conclusions sometimes only makes a -chap tumble to his own folly.”</p> - -<p>“Humph! I suppose this is another -mystery,” snickered Larry—“never to be -solved.”</p> - -<p>“Hank Styles is a pretty rough-looking -customer,” said Bob. “I think I know what’s -been going on in your mind, Tom. A chap -is justified in trying to find out all he can in -a case like this. Fellows”—he raised his -hand impressively—“no objections, now. -What I am going to do may be only the result -of a foolish whim, but perhaps it may do some -good, after all.”</p> - -<p>“What’s the idea?” demanded Tom, breathlessly.</p> - -<p>“I’ll skip off. All of you go in the house. -With such a big bunch around he’ll probably -never miss me. Even if he does it can’t do -any harm.”</p> - -<p>“But look here, Bob,” protested Sam -Randall.</p> - -<p>“Not a word,” warned Bob. “Don’t pay -the slightest attention to me—remember!”</p> - -<p>“Go as far as you like, Bob,” whispered Tom.</p> - -<p>Hank Styles reappeared at the door a short<span class="pagenum" id="Page_224">[224]</span> -time later. His manner had undergone a -decided change.</p> - -<p>“Come right in, fellows!” he called. “I -straightened things up a bit; an’ there’s a -nice room where you kin rest jist as long as -you like.”</p> - -<p>Bob Somers, Dave Brandon and Larry -Burnham kept to the rear of the little procession -which immediately started off.</p> - -<p>Just as they reached the steps of the ranch-house -Bob Somers dropped behind, and, while -the rest crowded toward the entrance, the -Rambler, with a quick, noiseless tread, slipped -around the side of the house.</p> - -<p>Pausing for an instant to study his surroundings, -he headed directly toward a spur in the -hills thickly overgrown with bushes and only -about a hundred feet distant. Several times -he turned, half expecting to see other men -around the ranch.</p> - -<p>But from the rear the old house presented a -picture of loneliness and desolation. Even -the dilapidated sheds and stable close by were -apparently deserted, although, through an -open door, he caught a glimpse of several -horses.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_225">[225]</span>“I’ll admit if a motion picture photographer -had his camera trained on me I’d feel rather -foolish,” muttered Bob, when he reached his -goal and threw himself flat on the ground -behind the bushes. “I don’t know exactly -why I’m here—but I am here! If I don’t see -anything suspicious within a half hour or so -guess I’d better go back to the crowd.”</p> - -<p>From his position he was able to get a good -view of both buildings, and at the same time -was thoroughly concealed by the bushes.</p> - -<p>The lone watcher, busily debating in his -mind the question as to whether he was acting -foolishly or pursuing a course of wisdom, -answered the problem to his own satisfaction -within the next five minutes.</p> - -<p>The back door of the house opened, and -three men came hurriedly out, almost running -toward the stable; and the one in the rear he -recognized as Hank Styles.</p> - -<p>“Good gracious!” murmured Bob. “There’s -something doing, sure as I live. Wonder -what in the world has become of the fellows?”</p> - -<p>Now he felt thankful indeed that his forethought -had been, apparently, wise. There -was something so hasty in the movements of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_226">[226]</span> -the men as to convince him that they were on -no ordinary errand.</p> - -<p>They disappeared inside the stable, and the -sound of their voices came over the air, mingling -in with the stamping of horses’ hoofs.</p> - -<p>“Ah! They are saddling their mounts,” -murmured Bob. “Mighty interesting, I call -it.”</p> - -<p>Snuggling closer among the bushes the -Rambler peered eagerly through an opening.</p> - -<p>“Ah!” he breathed. The men were leading -their horses outside, at the same time -talking in excited tones, but too low for the -words to reach him. “Going to skip, eh?”</p> - -<p>One of the trio began tearing a bit of paper -into strips. Then, taking off his sombrero, -he dropped the pieces inside, while the others, -standing near by, gesticulated in an angry -fashion. Not a move was lost to Bob Somers’ -eager gaze. Their actions bore out in an -almost startling fashion his idea that something -was up.</p> - -<p>“Ah!” he muttered again.</p> - -<p>Little Hank Styles was holding his hat -high in the air.</p> - -<p>Two arms were immediately outstretched,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_227">[227]</span> -as his companions one after another drew forth -a slip from the hat. Each seemed to scan the -pieces with great eagerness. The next instant -Hank Styles and another burst into a loud -peal of laughter and began to slap their knees -and give other evidences of extreme satisfaction. -The third, however, indicated his -displeasure in a way there could be no mistaking. -He shook his fist in the air and at -the house. And all this seemed to excite -further the risibilities of the other two.</p> - -<p>Bob Somers was clearly puzzled.</p> - -<p>“I can’t understand it,” he mused.</p> - -<p>Now the cattlemen were engaged in a most -earnest and animated conversation. Frequently -voices rose higher. Then, as though -arriving at some understanding, the three -sprang on their horses, cracked their quirts -and were off.</p> - -<p>Two rode away in the direction of the open -prairie, while the third, the man who had -become so angry, wheeled about and headed -in Bob’s direction.</p> - -<p>The Rambler’s nerves did not forsake him. -Lying flat on the ground he contrived to -shield his body still more by the aid of the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_228">[228]</span> -bushes and tall grass which grew around him -in profusion. As the hoof-beats of the horse -told of the rider’s rapid approach he felt his -heart beating faster. Discovery might lead -to most unpleasant results. With muscles -tense, he was ready to spring to his feet at the -first intimation of danger.</p> - -<p>But the rider clattered by without seeing -the amateur detective.</p> - -<p>Then there flashed into Bob Somers’ mind -a possible explanation of the men’s peculiar -actions.</p> - -<p>“They must have drawn lots,” he exclaimed. -“By Jingo, I’ll bet that’s it. If I followed -this chap I might make some more interesting -discoveries.”</p> - -<p>His thoughts reverted to the crowd. Why -had none of them appeared? Were they -sitting comfortably in the ranch-house, unmindful -of the fact that their host had flown? -His confidence in his friends was too great to -make him feel uneasy about their safety. -He had the choice of two decisions. And if -he selected the one he was almost irresistibly -prompted to do it meant leaving without an -instant’s loss of time.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_229">[229]</span>“Of course they’ll know I’m safe,” reflected -Bob.</p> - -<p>Cautiously he rose to a sitting position, for -the sound of the horseman could still be heard.</p> - -<p>“Yes, I’ll risk it,” he muttered, with grim -emphasis. “Better a failure than to be wondering -always if a good chance had slipped -by.”</p> - -<p>Now he stood upright, and still fearful lest -other men should have remained in the -vicinity of the house took a quick survey -before venturing forth. Then he ran, silently -and rapidly, to the front of the building, -where his horse was tethered.</p> - -<p>Fearing the loss of an instant’s time, he -resisted a temptation to dash inside and tell -his friends, and a moment later had jumped -into the saddle and was on the move.</p> - -<p>His work required the greatest care. Should -he approach too close it meant danger of being -seen; should he lag too far behind the risk of -losing the other’s trail. The route which the -cowpuncher had taken led directly up the -hill; so Bob Somers followed.</p> - -<p>The presence of the man in advance was -occasionally betrayed by a crackling in the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_230">[230]</span> -underbrush, as his horse plunged through. -He was evidently traveling hard.</p> - -<p>The Rambler took the precaution to keep -intervening objects between, or to ride in the -shadows now thickly falling about him in the -deep woods. Steadily forging ahead, he only -came to a halt when the top of the hill was -reached.</p> - -<p>Overlooking the trees and vegetation which -covered the descending slope, Bob Somers -could see a narrow valley, then, beyond, a succession -of rolling ridges. It was a wild, desolate -and silent scene, with no suggestion of -either human or animal life in all its vast -reaches.</p> - -<p>He realized, however, that if the man kept -straight ahead he must soon emerge into the -open valley. So, sheltered behind a mass of -scrubby cedars, he watched and waited.</p> - -<p>“Hello—there he is now!”</p> - -<p>The horseman, abruptly appearing in the -field of vision, began to gallop at top speed -over the level stretch; and Bob Somers, eagerly -following his course, saw him heading -for a wide break in the hills.</p> - -<p>“He’s in a mighty big hurry,” said Bob,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_231">[231]</span> -half aloud. “By Jingo, seems to be getting -rather suspicious, too.”</p> - -<p>The man had suddenly reined up; then, -swinging around in his saddle, he looked long -and earnestly in every direction. Apparently -satisfied, he whipped up his steed and never -slackened pace until the jagged sides of the -pass hid him from view.</p> - -<p>“Gee—one hasty move, and the jig might be -up!” reflected the Rambler, as he rode down -the slope.</p> - -<p>When Bob, in his turn, crossed the valley -and reached the break in the hills he surveyed -the somber-looking depths and precipitous -slopes with a critical air.</p> - -<p>“Whew! I certainly shouldn’t like to be -caught in there on a dark night,” he murmured. -“By George—there he goes again!”</p> - -<p>Scarcely visible against the surroundings, -horse and rider were seen moving across an -open space.</p> - -<p>The lad pulled hastily back, not stirring -until he judged the other to be sufficiently far -ahead for him to escape the risk of detection.</p> - -<p>The cool, damp air was filled with the odor -of rank weeds and grasses. Occasionally he<span class="pagenum" id="Page_232">[232]</span> -came across decaying branches and boughs -strewn over the ground; tangled thickets and -slabs of rock, too, added to the difficulties of -the way. Pools of water and marshy stretches -mirrored the gray sky above; and numerous -insects hovering over their slimy surfaces attacked -the traveler and his horse with unpleasant -vigor.</p> - -<p>Naturally, Bob often questioned the wisdom -of his course. What would his companions -think?</p> - -<p>“Hang it all, I’ve gone too far now to back -out,” he concluded, shrugging his shoulders.</p> - -<p>At last the gulch began opening out into -another valley.</p> - -<p>Before leaving the deep shadows of the hills -Bob rose in his stirrups, to sweep the country -with his field-glass. After several minutes of -anxious search the powerful instrument -brought into view the horseman already -climbing the side of a hill directly opposite.</p> - -<p>Now and again, riding in and out among -the trees, he was lost to view, and, finally, disappeared.</p> - -<p>“Perhaps I’ve made a pretty mess of it,” -soliloquized Bob, with a look at the darkening<span class="pagenum" id="Page_233">[233]</span> -sky. “Even if I started back now I couldn’t -get very far before the night would be down -on me black as pitch.”</p> - -<p>At a rattling pace the lad pounded across -the valley, then up the hill. On reflecting -that the man might have halted somewhere in -the vicinity, he proceeded slowly, never relaxing -his vigilance for a moment.</p> - -<p>The timber grew thickly on the slopes; deep, -gloomy shadows lay across his path. The sky -between the interlocking branches appeared -in weirdly shaped patches of light. The outlook -was not encouraging.</p> - -<p>At the top of the hill Bob could find no -point of vantage, as before, from which to gaze -over the surrounding landscape. The timber -was too thick, the inequalities of the ground -too great.</p> - -<p>“Still,” he reflected, “I’ll take a chance, -and plunge ahead.”</p> - -<p>And when night finally came Bob Somers -found himself on the slope of another wooded -hill. He dismounted, picketed and unsaddled -his horse, then sat down on a grassy knoll to -think over the situation. His sudden whim -had turned out disastrously. He was miles<span class="pagenum" id="Page_234">[234]</span> -and miles away from his companions. In -all his travels he had never been in the midst -of a more desolate-looking place; and the -trail was utterly lost.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_235">[235]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER XX<br /> - -<span class="small">THE RANCH-HOUSE</span></h2> -</div> - -<p>“<span class="smcap">This</span> here is a kind of an old place,” began -Hank Styles, as the boys entered the -ranch-house. “We never went in for no fancy -fixin’s, like Walt Allen over to Fool’s Castle. -I reckon you might as well come right up-stairs.”</p> - -<p>He led them to a rough wooden stairway -which led up from the main room.</p> - -<p>Hank Styles waited until all had passed, -then followed.</p> - -<p>It impressed Larry Burnham as being rather -singular that they should be conducted to the -second floor, and suddenly his comfortable -feeling of security vanished. Bob Somers -was a pretty bright chap, he reflected, and his -suspicions might be justified. The echoing of -their footsteps sounded through the big ranch-house -with dismal, uncanny clearness. He -didn’t like the little ranchman following so<span class="pagenum" id="Page_236">[236]</span> -close behind, as though driving them before -him.</p> - -<p>“Here we are!” Hank Styles’ rough voice -broke in harshly upon his meditations. “If -this here ain’t a nice room I never seen one. -Plenty of stools. A nice bench. We ain’t -got no books or other foolish things; but that -there view out the winder can be looked at a -long time.”</p> - -<p>Larry Burnham, brushing past the ranchman, -noted the massiveness of the door and -its powerful lock.</p> - -<p>“It’s certainly a big room,” said Dave.</p> - -<p>Tom stepped quickly over to the window.</p> - -<p>“I don’t see much to gaze at,” he sniffed.</p> - -<p>“That there is the beauty of it,” remarked -Hank Styles, coolly. “You’ve got to look a -long time before you kin see where it comes in.”</p> - -<p>He was now standing with his back against -the partly-open door surveying the crowd -with such a curious expression that Larry’s -uneasiness changed like a flash into alarm. -The man’s eyes seemed to suggest a curious -mixture of triumph and maliciousness.</p> - -<p>“Sit down, fellows,” commanded the ranchman. -“Make yourselves at home.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_237">[237]</span>Dave Brandon, usually the first to comply -with such invitations, gave the little man a -swift, keen glance.</p> - -<p>“That tired feeling I had has sort of worn -off,” he remarked. He glanced significantly -toward Sam Randall. “So I don’t think -we’ll stay.”</p> - -<p>The moment these words were spoken Larry -Burnham, yielding to his fears, attempted to -pass Hank Styles.</p> - -<p>“You don’t think you’ll stay, eh?” yelled -the ranchman savagely. “But I reckon you -will—you confounded lot of spies!”</p> - -<p>As though overpowered with rage he gave -the blond lad a mighty push which sent him -staggering back, to bring up violently in the -arms of Sam Randall.</p> - -<p>The room was in an uproar at once. Dave -Brandon leaped forward.</p> - -<p>Hank Styles, however, with the agility of a -cat, eluded him, and by an adroit movement -of his foot almost sent the stout boy to the -floor. Then, with a yell of derision, he -slipped outside the room, and before the combined -rush of angry and excited boys could -prevent it had closed the great door with a<span class="pagenum" id="Page_238">[238]</span> -bang. Instantly they heard the ominous -sound of the lock being turned.</p> - -<p>“Trapped!” groaned Larry Burnham. -“Oh, what easy marks!”</p> - -<p>“I no understand!” cried Thunderbolt.</p> - -<p>“Let us out,” howled Tom, “or you’ll get -in the worst trouble of your life!”</p> - -<p>A tremendous onslaught was made on the -door. Every ounce of their united strength -was exerted in an effort to force it open. But -the only result was to make themselves hot, -tired and perspiring.</p> - -<p>“Yes; push on it hard!” yelled a derisive -voice. “‘Walk inter my parler,’ says the -spider to the fly. Thought yerselves smart, -didn’t yer? Well, all I kin say is that ye’re -goin’ ter smart for it.”</p> - -<p>“Come now, this has gone far enough,” -shouted Dick Travers. “We don’t mind a -little joke——”</p> - -<p>“A joke, is it?” Hank Styles’ voice, muffled -by the partition, came again. “Thought -I couldn’t see through yer little trick, didn’t -yer? Sit there an’ think it over. It’s a -nice, comfor’ble room with stools an’ benches. -An’ when you git tired o’ sittin’ look<span class="pagenum" id="Page_239">[239]</span> -out o’ the winder at that there beautiful -view.”</p> - -<p>Tom Clifton immediately attacked the door -with a fury that, if not emulated by the others, -at least caused them to join in another supreme -effort to break the lock.</p> - -<p>Puny indeed was the lads’ force against the -mighty strength and solidity of the great door. -Their efforts were as fruitless as those of a bird -fluttering and beating its wings against the -bars of its cage.</p> - -<p>“Oh, what a beautiful mess!” cried Larry, -despairingly. “Now what are we going to do?”</p> - -<p>“Not blubber—for one thing!” cried Tom, -so exasperated that he could scarcely speak. -“Hank Styles is going to pay for this. I -knew there was something wrong the moment -he opened his mouth.”</p> - -<p>“Then why did you want to come in, like -a silly idiot?” stormed Larry.</p> - -<p>“Because I thought we could find out something.”</p> - -<p>“Well, we’re found in something.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, but this is much queer!” exclaimed -Thunderbolt.</p> - -<p>“Come now, don’t let us get excited,” admonished<span class="pagenum" id="Page_240">[240]</span> -Dave. “We have an ally on the -outside—a mighty lucky idea of Bob Somers’.”</p> - -<p>“Yes. And he’ll find a way to get us out,” -said Sam, confidently. “Fellows, what kind -of a place do you suppose we’ve run into?”</p> - -<p>“The headquarters of a band of smugglers, -of course,” cried Tom, with conviction. -“Didn’t you see how strange Hank Styles -looked when I spoke about the man who attacked -me?”</p> - -<p>“I certainly did,” answered Dick Travers.</p> - -<p>“Are we going to jaw here all night?” demanded -Larry Burnham. “I’m beginning to -know what a chicken in a coop feels like. -Let’s open that window an’ yell for Bob.”</p> - -<p>“Gee! I was never so mad in all my life!” -fumed Tom.</p> - -<p>“And you look it,” said Dave, cheerfully.</p> - -<p>Dick Travers, at this moment, was vainly -trying to open the window. But the sash was -nailed fast.</p> - -<p>“Score another one for Hank Styles,” he -said, calmly.</p> - -<p>“Stand back, fellows,” cautioned Larry -Burnham, picking up a stool. “I know a -capital remedy for windows that won’t open.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_241">[241]</span>“Hold on, Larry, hold on!” interposed -Sam Randall. “What’s the use of spoiling -perfectly good panes of glass? Where’s your -confidence in Bob Somers?”</p> - -<p>“That uncommonly tired feeling I had has -returned,” said Dave. “I’m going to take a -rest.”</p> - -<p>Larry placed the stool on the floor and sat -down.</p> - -<p>“I wonder why Hank Styles locked us in?” -he exclaimed. “What can he expect to gain -by it?”</p> - -<p>A lengthy and earnest discussion followed. -Many theories were advanced; but beyond being -absolutely certain that the whole affair -was most extraordinary none could give a -plausible explanation.</p> - -<p>“I’ll bet there’s a big bunch around this -place,” said Tom.</p> - -<p>“An’ maybe ready to pounce on us the moment -we get out,” suggested the blond lad. -“Gee! I only hope nothing’s happened to -Bob.”</p> - -<p>“They’d never catch him napping,” said -Dick.</p> - -<p>“Oh, I don’t know about that. For all we<span class="pagenum" id="Page_242">[242]</span> -know, they may have tied him up an’ tossed -him in a corner like a sack of wheat. Look -out, fellows! This time it goes.”</p> - -<p>With all the strength of his powerful arms -the big lad hurled the stool.</p> - -<p>The sound of a fearful crash instantly -followed. The woodwork was torn asunder, -while showers of glass rattled over the floor, -or, falling outside, were splintered and smashed -to bits on the ground. A dull thud announced -the arrival of the stool on the turf.</p> - -<p>“Not a neat job, but effective,” remarked -Dave.</p> - -<p>“Would have been quite a pretty sight from -down below,” commented Sam.</p> - -<p>A number of heads were immediately poked -out through the broken window.</p> - -<p>“Hello, Bob, hello!” yelled Tom.</p> - -<p>The others joined in a rousing chorus.</p> - -<p>When no replies came to repeated calls the -lads began to look at each other with expressions -of wonderment.</p> - -<p>“Still,” remarked Tom, with great confidence, -“you may be mighty sure Bob has -some good reason for not opening his mouth.”</p> - -<p>“I guess I’ve stated it,” grunted Larry;<span class="pagenum" id="Page_243">[243]</span> -“an’ it wouldn’t surprise me a bit if we never -saw our horses an’ stuff again.”</p> - -<p>This possibility quite staggered the crowd.</p> - -<p>“Wouldn’t that be a jolly fine ending to -your mystery-solving expedition?” went on -Larry relentlessly.</p> - -<p>“‘Words, words, words’!” came from Dave. -“Boys, we must get out of here. Can’t jump—the -distance is entirely too great.”</p> - -<p>“Let’s see,” exclaimed Sam. “Our khaki -coats are strong and tough. What’s the -matter with tying the sleeves of two together, -and——”</p> - -<p>“Good!” broke in Tom. “I’d have -thought of that myself in another moment. -Quick! Let’s try it.”</p> - -<p>He and Larry immediately took off their -coats and followed Sam’s suggestion.</p> - -<p>“It ought to be strong enough to hold an -elephant,” remarked Dave, approvingly, as he -examined their work.</p> - -<p>Tom seized one of the sleeves, Larry Burnham -and Dick gripping the other. Then, -easing himself over the window sill, the tall -lad was lowered steadily toward the grass-bestrewn -ground. It was such an easy operation<span class="pagenum" id="Page_244">[244]</span> -that he laughed in derision at Hank -Styles’ effort to hold them prisoners.</p> - -<p>The instant his feet touched the ground -Tom dashed off at top speed. A glad cry of -relief presently escaped his lips—the horses -were contentedly munching the grass in front -of the house. A quick count, however, -showed one to be missing.</p> - -<p>“Ah! No wonder Bob didn’t answer,” he -exclaimed. An idea of the true state of affairs -flashed into his mind. “Hooray! I’ll just -bet he’s up to some detective work.”</p> - -<p>Running back he yelled: “There doesn’t -seem to be a soul about the old place, fellows, -and I guess Bob is on their trail.”</p> - -<p>Dick Travers was soon standing beside him; -then came the young Cree. And presently -all were on solid earth once more.</p> - -<p>“I think the view looks much finer from -here than it does up above,” laughed Tom, -joyously.</p> - -<p>“Hank Styles much bad man!” exclaimed -Thunderbolt, with emphasis. “If him ever -come over to Cree village again he run away -mighty fast. Me see him there many times.”</p> - -<p>“Half the fun of getting out is spoiled by<span class="pagenum" id="Page_245">[245]</span> -Bob’s not being here,” growled Dick. “I guess -Tom’s theory is correct. Let’s go inside.”</p> - -<p>He led the way to the front door.</p> - -<p>It proved to be locked.</p> - -<p>“Humph! I believe those fellows have -gone away for good!” cried Tom.</p> - -<p>“We must wait here until Bob gets back,” -remarked Dave. “So what’s the matter with -making ourselves comfortable? Suppose we -try the windows.”</p> - -<p>“But—but—just imagine what might happen -if Hank Styles an’ some others should -come back,” began Larry.</p> - -<p>“Ease your mind, son,” interrupted Tom, -loftily. “We’re not a bit afraid.”</p> - -<p>Finding all the ground floor sashes fastened -the crowd decided to adopt heroic measures. -A ponderous sawhorse was found in the -stable; and, armed with this, they attacked -the door. Before their onslaught it soon -tottered back on creaking hinges.</p> - -<p>“Hooray—hooray!” shouted Tom. And, -followed by the others, he dashed inside.</p> - -<p>“Let’s get something to eat,” suggested -Dave. “I’m uncommonly hungry.”</p> - -<p>“That seems to be the best plan,” agreed<span class="pagenum" id="Page_246">[246]</span> -Sam. “Here’s a big stove and enough wood -to start a fire. Let’s pitch in hard.”</p> - -<p>Several of the boys immediately went out -and got the saddle bags.</p> - -<p>But one thing marred their happiness—the -absence of Bob Somers. Without his cheery -presence a damper seemed to have come over -the group.</p> - -<p>“Him much nice boy,” said the young Cree. -“Hope nothing hurt him.”</p> - -<p>“Well, he’s staying away a blamed long -time,” said Larry, uneasily. “Perhaps we -ought to go off on a search.”</p> - -<p>“While the grub is cooking I’ll do it,” cried -Tom. “Come along?”</p> - -<p>“Me go, too,” said Thunderbolt.</p> - -<p>The three scouts departed at once, and did -not return until Dave was placing the steaming -viands on a long pine table which stood -in the middle of the room.</p> - -<p>“No news,” announced Larry, “although -we nearly yelled our heads off.”</p> - -<p>“Bad—very bad!” cried Thunderbolt.</p> - -<p>“If I didn’t know Bob Somers so well I’d -feel worried,” remarked Dave Brandon. “But -he’s a strong, courageous and resourceful<span class="pagenum" id="Page_247">[247]</span> -chap. We can save his share of the -meal.”</p> - -<p>In spite of anxiety every one possessed a -tremendous appetite. After their long ride it -seemed almost impossible to get enough.</p> - -<p>While the big square window still framed -in an expanse of greenish sky and glowing -clouds Tom lighted an oil lamp that hung -from the ceiling, and its dull yellow glow -partly chased away the gloom which pervaded -their surroundings.</p> - -<p>As time passed slowly on, bringing no sound -of footsteps, and twinkling stars appeared in -the dark and colorless sky, the lads found it -increasingly difficult to keep up the mask of -cheerfulness.</p> - -<p>“There’s one thing pretty certain,” remarked -Dave: “if Bob has gone anywhere -among those hills there’s not much chance of -our seeing him again to-night.”</p> - -<p>Outside, a fitful wind rustled the grass. -From the gently swaying branches of a tree -close by came a musical sighing. Walking to -the door Tom looked out upon a field of darkness -so intense that nothing beyond a few feet -could be distinguished.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_248">[248]</span>“Whew, how black!” he exclaimed. -“Let’s get some more lanterns, fellows.”</p> - -<p>“Going to illuminate the prairie?” inquired -Larry.</p> - -<p>“No; but we’ll make the windows shine so -brightly that if Bob should happen to be out -in the open he’d see the beacon for miles.”</p> - -<p>The boys hustled around, soon finding three -lanterns in a closet. These were lighted, -carried to adjoining rooms and placed on the -window sills.</p> - -<p>“Now, for the present, there is nothing to -do but wait,” exclaimed Dave.</p> - -<p>After a while Thunderbolt and Tom went -outside and led the horses to the stable, then -rejoined the disconsolate-looking Ramblers, -who were either lounging or walking about -the big room. The light from the lamp failed -to clear away entirely the gloom which -hovered over the corners, and every movement -of the lads sent odd-shaped shadows -traveling fantastically across the floor or -walls.</p> - -<p>At last Dave picked up his blanket.</p> - -<p>“I’m going to make a mighty good try to -sleep,” he said.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_249">[249]</span>“You’ll succeed, all right,” grinned Larry. -“Who’s standin’ guard?”</p> - -<p>“My turn,” replied Tom.</p> - -<p>The rest of the crowd, weary and worried, -concluded to follow the stout boy’s example.</p> - -<p>“Sleep well,” said the sentinel, with an -effort to smile.</p> - -<p>Rifle in hand, he walked outside and began -pacing to and fro.</p> - -<p>His watch passed in a very uneventful fashion. -Sam Randall relieved him, and when -Sam’s time was up he called Tom.</p> - -<p>“Gee!” muttered the tall Rambler, rubbing -his eyes. “I wish the next two hours would -pass as quickly as the last.”</p> - -<p>He took up a position by the window, and, -just as watchful as though a host of enemies -surrounded them, kept a keen lookout.</p> - -<p>“I do wonder where Bob is at the present -moment,” he thought. “It’s a mighty queer -affair. If he doesn’t turn up pretty soon we’ll -have to go on a hunt for him.”</p> - -<p>Occasionally it required heroic efforts to -keep his eyes from closing. He envied the -sleepers, so blissfully unconscious of time or -place. Now he tiptoed softly up and down;<span class="pagenum" id="Page_250">[250]</span> -then walked to the partly-open door, or stood -by the window trying to penetrate the obscurity -beyond.</p> - -<p>He felt relieved to see a change gradually -coming over the scene. The eastern sky became -tinged with a cold and grayish light—dawn -was approaching, and ghostly streamers -of mist were revealed hanging low over the -prairie and hills.</p> - -<p>“Well, I was certainly never so glad to see -it in my life,” exclaimed Tom, softly. “My, -hasn’t the time dragged out, and——”</p> - -<p>He abruptly paused—for, without warning, -there happened the most singular thing which -had ever taken place in the history of the -Rambler Club.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_251">[251]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER XXI<br /> - -<span class="small">LOST</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">Bob Somers</span>, in his camp among the hills, -with the black night about him, tried to accept -the situation philosophically. It looked -as though his pursuit had been a dismal failure. -And here he was, cut off from any hope -of reaching his friends for hours.</p> - -<p>“If I’d only taken time to tell the fellows -I’d feel much better,” he reflected.</p> - -<p>He had built a fire in a secluded spot and -eaten supper. And now there was nothing to -do but think, or gaze at the flashes of light -which often pierced the darkness. The stars -were shining with unusual brilliancy. He -tried to remember what he had read about -these orbs so many million miles away, but -his thoughts would constantly return to the -boys he had left in the lonely ranch-house -and the man who was possibly encamped -somewhere on the same range of hills.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_252">[252]</span>“I only hope he doesn’t see the light of -this fire,” he murmured.</p> - -<p>Long experience in the woods had steeled -his nerves to stand without a tremor the rustlings -and whisperings which sometimes even -the slightest breeze occasions. A twig snapping, -a broken branch falling earthward, or -some small animal scurrying through the -brush sounds in the silence of the night with -unaccountable clearness.</p> - -<p>Bob Somers, sitting on a broad, smooth slab -of stone, was often obliged to fight off swarms -of insects attracted by the glow of the fire. -An inquisitive toad hopped up, fixed its beady -eyes on him for a moment, then turned about -and solemnly hopped away.</p> - -<p>Often he asked himself if they actually had -stumbled upon the smugglers’ stronghold. At -any rate there was clearly something wrong. -He had been forcibly impressed with the idea -that the man who had ridden among the hills -was delegated to perform some most important -work. It made his disappointment all the -keener.</p> - -<p>“Well, the only way is to make the best of -it,” mused Bob. “I’ll join the ‘Don’t Worry’<span class="pagenum" id="Page_253">[253]</span> -Club. Worry certainly never did a chap a bit -of good. When things begin to go wrong be -glad they aren’t any worse.”</p> - -<p>Having spoken this bit of philosophy aloud -the Rambler rose to his feet. His pocket -search-light cut a brilliant streak over the -ground, and by its aid he was able to find his -way across the uneven surface. From a little -distance the firelight dancing and sparkling, -its cheery rays flashing upon the surrounding -trees and bushes, made a decidedly cheerful -spot of color in a field of blackness.</p> - -<p>He found walking rather difficult. Bushes -rose up before his path; here and there a -treacherous declivity had to be avoided. But -still he pushed on, hoping to catch sight somewhere -in the scene before him of another -glowing spot of color which might tell him of -the presence in that vast expanse of the man -he had pursued.</p> - -<p>There was none, however. Bob, following -his own advice, thrust aside the feeling of -disappointment and began to retrace his steps.</p> - -<p>“I might as well turn in,” he reflected, -“and get up with the day. I’ll make a mighty -good try to pick up that fellow’s trail again.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_254">[254]</span>Accordingly he rolled himself in his blanket -and lay down. Out in the open air, with the -scent of the earth and growing things about -him, and a pleasant breeze sweeping over the -hilltop, slumber did not need to be wooed. -The Rambler was soon fast asleep. And it -was not until early morning that his eyes were -once more open.</p> - -<p>“Hello!” he exclaimed, jumping to his -feet. “Daylight already! And there’s plenty -of work to be done.”</p> - -<p>Only a few charred sticks remained of his -fire, but Bob soon had it going again. A -breakfast was hastily cooked and eaten; then, -considerably refreshed, he saddled his horse.</p> - -<p>Cheerless and grim appeared the flattish -clouds of mist which hung between him and -the distance. Vegetation dripped with moisture -and reflected the cold gray of the sky -above.</p> - -<p>Bob’s first work was to make a careful search -of the surroundings, to see if he could discover -any indications of the rider having passed -that way. In this he was not successful. So -he at last vaulted on his horse’s back and -started off.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_255">[255]</span>A rosy glow was now appearing in the -eastern sky; and presently streaks of light -began stealing over the ridge of hills, picking -out here and there a resting place. As the -sun crept above the horizon and showed its -gorgeous rim over the even gray of a distant -elevation Bob Somers rode down into the -still-shadowed valley, examining every foot of -the way with the keenest scrutiny.</p> - -<p>“I’ll use up all morning in the search,” he -decided. “I certainly hope the fellows won’t -be worried. Don’t believe any of ’em, though, -would want me to turn back now.”</p> - -<p>Traveling up the slope of another hill he -reached the summit just as the full glow of -sunlight shot over the landscape. Somber -shadows were immediately transformed into -tints of delicate blue, barren surfaces of rock -on hillsides caught and held the gleams of -gold, while the woods became patches of -mellow green.</p> - -<p>There was a delightful sense of freshness in -the fragrant air. Bob Somers felt buoyed up. -He reflected that any one who could experience -gloomy feelings on such a morning must be -hopelessly out of tune with nature.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_256">[256]</span>Descending again, he reached a creek which -rippled musically over a boulder-strewn bed -between two high ridges. On the opposite side -traveling was impossible, owing to precipitous -slopes.</p> - -<p>“By Jove, I’m getting into a regular -wilderness!” exclaimed Bob.</p> - -<p>A few minutes later, on turning a bend, he -saw before him a point where the stream was -almost choked with the débris brought down -by floods. Around decaying boughs and -branches the water swirled and bubbled, as if -seeking to tear them from their fastenings. -A murmur, never slackening for an instant, -filled the narrow gorge with a pleasing sound.</p> - -<p>Bob Somers rode along a narrow space with -the stream some four or five feet below, while -above towered a wall of dull slate-colored rock. -He saw with satisfaction, however, that a short -distance beyond a gentle descent led down to -the water’s edge. There numerous pools had -formed, and a marshy stretch partly overgrown -with weeds and tall grass followed the -receding base of the hill.</p> - -<p>As he reached it the Rambler uttered an -exclamation of surprise. Deeply imprinted<span class="pagenum" id="Page_257">[257]</span> -on this tract were impressions of horses’ -hoofs.</p> - -<p>“Great Scott!” cried Bob, leaping to the -ground.</p> - -<p>All thoughts of returning for the present -vanished from his mind. Here was exactly -what he had been looking for so anxiously. -A careful examination, too, convinced him -that the tracks were fresh.</p> - -<p>“Well, this is certainly a great piece of -luck,” he exclaimed, joyously. “I haven’t -the least doubt in the world that it was Mr. -Hank Styles’ friend who passed this way.”</p> - -<p>Highly encouraged, Bob Somers resumed -the trail, and presently made another interesting -discovery. Beside the fresh tracks were -many others clearly much older. A pathway, -too, had been beaten through the tall grass.</p> - -<p>Satisfied that for the present at least there -was no danger of his going off the track, Bob -traveled on, putting mile after mile behind him. -Occasionally he urged his horse through dark, -somber ravines which suggested the abode of -wild animals, for nature here had contrived -to put on its grimmest aspect.</p> - -<p>At last progress by the side of the stream<span class="pagenum" id="Page_258">[258]</span> -was no longer possible. The hills rose steeply -from the water’s edge.</p> - -<p>“Blocked from the creek, that’s certain,” -mused Bob.</p> - -<p>After taking the precaution to fill his canteen -and give the horse a drink, he surveyed -the landscape carefully in all directions. -From the character of the ground he felt sure -that the man had been obliged to follow the -stream on the same side, and, on further -consideration, concluded it to be quite possible -that he had mounted the hill, either there -or at a point close by.</p> - -<p>“So I’ll climb it myself,” he said, giving -the reins a jerk.</p> - -<p>Although the Rambler tried to keep close -to the creek so many obstacles were encountered -that the distance between them seemed -steadily to increase.</p> - -<p>“Well, now I’m certainly as badly off as -ever,” soliloquized Bob Somers, ruefully. “If -I hadn’t come across those hoof-prints I’d probably -be a long way on the back track by this -time. And—by George—I really do believe -I’m getting mixed.”</p> - -<p>He raised himself in his stirrups. Everywhere<span class="pagenum" id="Page_259">[259]</span> -ridge after ridge rolled off to meet the -sky, all looking monotonously alike.</p> - -<p>“For the life of me I don’t know in which -direction Hank Styles’ ranch-house lies,” he -grinned. “It’s a good thing my saddle bags -are full of grub.”</p> - -<p>A spirit of recklessness seized him.</p> - -<p>“Of course,” he argued, “the fellows must -know I’m safe; and as I’ve stayed away so -long a few hours more or less can’t matter. -Get up, old boy! I’ll give Larry Burnham a -chance to say that this was the wildest wild -goose chase he ever heard of.”</p> - -<p>About an hour later he drew rein at the -bottom of a deep ravine. There could be no -question now that his task had utterly failed. -The horseman who had passed through the -swampy section might have pursued a course -miles and miles away from his present situation. -The Rambler was reconciled. At least, -he had made a faithful effort. His mistake -had been in allowing himself to be led on and -on when common sense should have told him -the futility and absurdity of such a course.</p> - -<p>“Oh, yes, I know it’s very dreadful,” -grinned Bob. “Still, I guess Tom’ll stick up<span class="pagenum" id="Page_260">[260]</span> -for me against the stings and jibes of outrageous -tongues.” He laughed merrily. “Now -for a bite of lunch.”</p> - -<p>Realizing the importance of every minute, -if he expected to reach the ranch-house before -nightfall, the lad satisfied himself with crackers -and dried beef. Then, consulting his compass, -he set off in search of the creek.</p> - -<p>“And once there it won’t take me long to -get my bearings,” he thought, confidently.</p> - -<p>Up and down hill he rode; but the stream -persistently remained out of sight.</p> - -<p>To Bob Somers’ mind there was humor in -the situation—but the humor was of rather a -grim sort. Weeks might be spent in that wild -region without encountering a single human -soul.</p> - -<p>“It’s a good thing I’m not a tenderfoot,” he -grinned. He stroked his pony’s neck. “I -guess, though, we’ll be able to find our way -out of here before very long, old boy.”</p> - -<p>Bob Somers’ hopeful prediction did not -seem likely of fulfilment. He could find -nothing that looked familiar.</p> - -<p>“Lost at last!” he muttered, with a smile.</p> - -<p>His horse was plainly showing evidences of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_261">[261]</span> -distress. The long, hard climbs over steep -and slippery surfaces, together with the heat -of the day, were exhausting the animal. So -Bob presently dismounted.</p> - -<p>“Poor old chap,” he murmured, commiseratively. -“You certainly need a rest.”</p> - -<p>The lad looked over the oval-shaped valley -and the line of encircling hills, then, drawing -a long breath, exclaimed:</p> - -<p>“I guess my troubles are only beginning.”</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_262">[262]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER XXII<br /> - -<span class="small">A CRY FOR HELP</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">Too</span> considerate of his pony to push the -animal hard, Bob now made but slow progress. -His canteens were empty and his -throat already becoming parched. The horse, -too, needed water. This, then, began to be a -more important consideration than a steady -march toward the ranch-house.</p> - -<p>From the top of a high hill he finally saw -through his field-glass a line of scrubby willows -crossing a valley. Their presence suggested a -watercourse.</p> - -<p>“By Jingo, I believe it’s the creek!” he -cried, hopefully. “Hooray!”</p> - -<p>After a long, arduous descent he reached the -trees, finding that a narrow creek coursed its -way between their overhanging branches -toward a wide gash in the hills beyond.</p> - -<p>“Ah, this is a fine sight!” exclaimed the -Rambler, enthusiastically.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_263">[263]</span>Rarely had clear, sparkling water held such -a delightful appeal. The very air seemed -filled with its fresh, pleasant odor. The pony -neighed and tugged hard to pull away from -his restraining hands.</p> - -<p>“No, no, old chap,” whispered Bob. “You -must rest a bit and cool off first.”</p> - -<p>How delightful it was to wash his face and -hands in the stream and drink the cool, refreshing -liquid! And then, having satisfied -nature’s cravings, he began to figure out his -position.</p> - -<p>“Yes, sir, I believe this is the very creek,” -he decided, at length, “but miles beyond the -place where the gorge pushed me aside.” He -glanced at the sun. His brow clouded over. -“I’ll never make it to-night,” he exclaimed, -with finality. “So what’s the use of exhausting -this pony any more? No, sir—I won’t do -it.”</p> - -<p>Some distance further along, near the base -of the hill, he discovered an inviting little -depression, and in the middle of this built a -fire. Then, while the coffee-pot simmered on -a bed of red-hot coals and frying bacon sent -off a pleasant aroma, he reflected on the many<span class="pagenum" id="Page_264">[264]</span> -mysterious things which had happened, and -on the ill-luck which had attended all their -efforts to solve them.</p> - -<p>“It begins to look as though Larry Burnham -was right,” he murmured. “Still, somehow, -I don’t regret having taken this chance.”</p> - -<p>He strolled up and down for a while; then -followed the creek quite a distance as it wound -its way among the hills.</p> - -<p>“I have a pretty good idea how Robinson -Crusoe must have felt in his solitude,” he -grinned, as he turned and began to walk back -toward the fire.</p> - -<p>Finding inactivity trying to his patience, -Bob Somers kept busy while the end of the -day approached. Even then time seemed to -pass with extraordinary slowness. He heartily -welcomed dusk; and as the shadows of night -stole over the hills and crept into the valleys, -gradually wrapping the landscape in impenetrable -gloom, he decided to seek repose.</p> - -<p>“And I’ll hit the trail back on the very -first signs of day,” he concluded.</p> - -<p>Being a good sleeper, and nothing occurring -to disturb him, morning found Bob Somers -fresh, and eager to conquer the difficulties of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_265">[265]</span> -travel which he knew lay between him and -the ranch-house.</p> - -<p>His breakfast was cooked and eaten in short -order. When the pony, in response to the -crack of his quirt, leaped ahead, Bob felt like -giving a shout of exultation.</p> - -<p>“Mighty certain, after this, the crowd will -stick together,” he said, aloud. “By Jingo, I -suppose the fellows must be pretty badly worried.”</p> - -<p>He found the passage between the hills -comparatively easy, so made rather rapid -progress.</p> - -<p>Always an alert and careful observer, he -noticed, when the hills began to fall away, a -beaten trail.</p> - -<p>“By George!” he exclaimed, in some excitement. -“I do wonder if this can have any -connection with the other? It seems very -likely,” he argued. “If I hadn’t lost the -trail among the hills it would probably have -led me to this very place.”</p> - -<p>His eyes followed the track, which, approaching -from the distance, left the creek -rather abruptly and cut across the wide undulating -valley. He was in the grip of all his<span class="pagenum" id="Page_266">[266]</span> -old feelings like a flash. An intense curiosity -to know where the trail led, if nothing more, -stole over him. The thought of possible discoveries -kindled his imagination. A strong -allurement tempted him once more to brave -Dame Fortune.</p> - -<p>“Why not?” he asked himself.</p> - -<p>Indecision lasted but an instant. The day -was young; the broad expanse seemed to -beckon him on. He drew a long breath.</p> - -<p>“Yes, I’ll do it!” he exclaimed, determinedly. -“Get up, old chap!”</p> - -<p>The horse broke into a gallop. No great -amount of care was necessary to keep the trail -in view, though in places it was either faint -or entirely obliterated.</p> - -<p>“I only hope things don’t turn out as they -did before,” he exclaimed.</p> - -<p>The opposite hills rose higher, ever cutting -more sharply against the sky. His pony, in -a spirited mood, needed no urging. He -swung over a gently-swelling rise, then galloped -swiftly down on the other side.</p> - -<p>The trail was still before him. But instead -of climbing the hill, as he had expected, it -skirted along the base.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_267">[267]</span>Bob Somers was about to ride on when -he observed a lesser track leading around the -slope in the opposite direction. He instantly -halted.</p> - -<p>“Shouldn’t wonder a bit if it goes to some -cabin or house,” he said to himself. “Perhaps -it would pay to investigate.”</p> - -<p>He wheeled sharply about, then rode slowly -along, examining every foot of the way with -the keenest attention. In several places the -earth was considerably cut up by horses’ hoofs, -some of the imprints having a fresh appearance.</p> - -<p>“Good—good!” cried Bob.</p> - -<p>The trail presently led over a slope, through -a patch of woods, and kept luring him on until -he soon found himself deep among the hills -again. On a rocky stretch all traces vanished, -but a careful search revealed it further along.</p> - -<p>At last, turning into a dark and narrow -gorge, the Rambler suddenly reined up with -an exclamation.</p> - -<p>Between leafy openings in the trees his keen -eyes had caught sight of a log cabin. Yes, -there was a cabin—somebody’s home. Triumphantly -he gazed upon it.</p> - -<p>“I’ve found something, anyway,” he whispered<span class="pagenum" id="Page_268">[268]</span> -softly. “But what a curious idea to -build in such an out-of-the-way place! I -wonder if——”</p> - -<p>He paused. Suppose the occupants of the -cabin should prove to be some of the rough -and dangerous characters Teddy Banes had -spoken about?</p> - -<p>“Guess I’d better go a bit slow on this,” he -reflected, picketing his horse behind a clump -of bushes.</p> - -<p>Presently he stole ahead almost as silently -as an Indian.</p> - -<p>A few moments later he paused behind a -thick bush, with the structure right before -him. He studied it earnestly. There were -no sounds of life, although the cabin did not -bear the appearance of a place deserted. True -enough, the door was closed, one window -boarded up, the sash of another down; but -there seemed to be plenty of evidences of the -recent presence of human beings.</p> - -<p>“I suppose they’ve just gone away for a -while,” mused Bob.</p> - -<p>He waited for several minutes; then, -straightening up, walked boldly across the -gulch.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_269">[269]</span>“I know it’s scarcely worth while to knock,” -he thought, “but here goes—just for fun.”</p> - -<p>The butt of his quirt came against the heavy -door with force enough to send a series of -sharp echoes throughout the narrow confines.</p> - -<p>The Rambler laughed softly.</p> - -<p>“That certainly made an awful racket,” he -began.</p> - -<p>Then, as though an electric shock had -passed through him, the expression on his face -changed to one of amazement.</p> - -<p>The sound of a voice had come from within—and -of a voice raised, as though in a cry for -help.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_270">[270]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER XXIII<br /> - -<span class="small">BILLY ASHE IS DISAPPOINTED</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">Tom Clifton</span>, the sentinel, gazing abstractedly -out of the window, suddenly saw a -number of horsemen, like shadowy phantoms, -ride from behind a spur of the hill, and, with -ominous silence, bear down upon the house.</p> - -<p>This sight so astounded the tall boy that -for an instant he stood stock still. But, with -a strong effort, recovering mastery over his -tingling nerves, he yelled a warning.</p> - -<p>“Great Cæsar! Wake up, fellows, wake -up!”</p> - -<p>His ringing alarm had not ceased to echo -when sharp gleams of fire caught his eye and -he heard the rapid crack, crack of pistol shots, -together with a succession of shouts.</p> - -<p>By this time the boys were springing to -their feet, as wide awake as they had ever -been in their lives, every one hurling eager, -anxious inquiries toward the Rambler.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_271">[271]</span>“Keep under cover!” screamed Larry. -“You chaps wouldn’t take any warning. Now -see what’s come of it!”</p> - -<p>Crack—crack—crack! The fusillade of -shots rang out again. They could hear the -sound of many voices. Thoroughly alarmed, -all sprang for points of safety, as far away from -the range of bullets as possible.</p> - -<p>Every instant they expected to hear the -ping, ping of flying lead.</p> - -<p>This ominous sound, however, failed to -reach their ears.</p> - -<p>But something else did.</p> - -<p>“We call upon you to surrender!” shouted -a powerful voice. “The house is surrounded. -There are no possible means of escape!”</p> - -<p>“Oh—oh!” wailed Larry. “What is going -to happen?”</p> - -<p>“Come out one by one and throw up your -arms!” again thundered the voice. “Be -lively, now, or we’ll fire on the house!”</p> - -<p>At this awe-inspiring command the boys -stood motionless, as though their muscles refused -to perform their usual functions. They -realized instantly that no time would be given -them to choose any plan of action. The voice<span class="pagenum" id="Page_272">[272]</span> -of the speaker indicated a deadly earnestness -not to be trifled with.</p> - -<p>Who among them would be the first to go -out in the gray, cheerless dawn to face this -mysterious body of horsemen who had them -completely at their mercy?</p> - -<p>For a few seconds the silence was dense—painful. -Each waited for the others to speak.</p> - -<p>“Are you coming, or shall we fire?” roared -the man outside. “Surrender, in the name -of the law!”</p> - -<p>“Ah ha!” cried Dave, suddenly. “What -does that mean? In the name of the law—the -name of the law!”</p> - -<p>“I—I—be-be-lieve it’s only some kind of a -trick!” cried Larry, with vibrating voice.</p> - -<p>“For the third and last time: are you going -to come out?”</p> - -<p>“I’ll go,” said Dave.</p> - -<p>“You’ll do nothing of the sort!” exclaimed -Tom, heroically.</p> - -<p>He brushed hastily past the stout boy, and, -with a fast-beating heart, swung open the big -front door and stepped outside.</p> - -<p>“Up with your hands!” came a ringing -order. “Do you surrender?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_273">[273]</span></p> - -<div class="figcenter"><img src="images/p272.jpg" alt="" /></div> -<p class="caption">HE LOOKED UP AT THE MAN</p> - -<p>For the first time gaining an unobstructed -view, Tom Clifton uttered a gasp of astonishment. -A half dozen red-coated figures stationed -at different points were covering him -with revolvers.</p> - -<p>“Great Scott—the—the Mounted Police!” -he cried.</p> - -<p>The feeling of relief was so great that he -almost felt like bursting into a laugh.</p> - -<p>“Do we surrender? Why, certainly—anything -to oblige.”</p> - -<p>A distinct cry of amazement from the foremost -rider was immediately heard. A touch -of the quirt sent his horse leaping toward the -Rambler, whose arms dropped to his side.</p> - -<p>An explosive exclamation came from the -officer, so loud, so full of pent-up wrath as to -cause Tom Clifton to step hastily back.</p> - -<p>He looked up at the man.</p> - -<p>“You!—You again!” cried a furious voice.</p> - -<p>“Billy Ashe!” fell from Tom’s lips in -tones of amazement.</p> - -<p>The two faced each other. There was a moment -of tense—dramatic silence.</p> - -<p>The young trooper of the Northwest -Mounted was apparently too dumfounded to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_274">[274]</span> -follow up his speech. The other horsemen -galloped up, while the crowd rushed pell-mell -from the ranch-house.</p> - -<p>“I can hardly believe it!” came in Witmar’s -voice. He turned toward the other -men. “These are the very chaps we told you -about.”</p> - -<p>“Ah! Good-morning, Mr. Ashe!” remarked -Sam Randall, pleasantly. “This, indeed, -is a joyous surprise!”</p> - -<p>The trooper found his voice.</p> - -<p>“I never heard of such confounded luck in -all my life!” he yelled. “Are there any men -in that house? Quick—tell me!”</p> - -<p>“Not a single one,” answered Tom. “We -scared Hank Styles away.”</p> - -<p>“We might have known it!” exclaimed -Ashe, violently. “This is the second time -you’ve bungled things and allowed the men to -escape us.”</p> - -<p>“Aye, aye!” said Witmar. “We’ll never -get ’em as long as these chaps remain in -Canada.” And, to Billy Ashe’s intense anger -and disgust, he burst into an uncontrollable -fit of laughter. Several of the others -joined in.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_275">[275]</span>This wave of mirth immediately communicated -itself to the lads.</p> - -<p>Billy Ashe’s disappointment, however, was -too great to permit him to see any humor in -the situation. An all-night’s vigil, which -every one had confidently predicted would be -the means of their rounding up the entire -band, had only resulted in bringing them once -more face to face with this crowd of boys from -the States. It was too exasperating to overlook.</p> - -<p>“You fellows are under arrest!” he exclaimed, -harshly. “Step right back into that -house!”</p> - -<p>“Must we hold up our hands?” asked -Tom.</p> - -<p>“No back talk now. You have interfered -with officers of His Majesty’s service. That’s -no joking matter.”</p> - -<p>“Don’t try to resist, boys,” exclaimed Witmar, -grinning broadly, “or we’ll cover you -again.”</p> - -<p>“Fellow prisoners,” cried Dick, “let us invite -our captors to breakfast.”</p> - -<p>“I am sorry we should have been the means -of putting you to so much trouble,” said Dave<span class="pagenum" id="Page_276">[276]</span> -Brandon. “I hope next time things will turn -out better.”</p> - -<p>“They never will,” growled Ashe. “Every -time I expect to make an important capture -I’ll find one of you chaps bobbing up to say: -‘Why, hello, here’s Billy Ashe again!’”</p> - -<p>The policemen picketed their horses, then -followed the crowd inside.</p> - -<p>It didn’t look very much like captors and -captured. A big breakfast was cooked; and -gradually the awful frown which rested on -Trooper Ashe’s face departed. He listened to -all they had to say, and actually smiled when -he learned the trick Hank Styles had played -upon them.</p> - -<p>“And you haven’t seen your friend since?” -he asked.</p> - -<p>“No,” responded Tom. “And we’re a bit -worried about him, too.”</p> - -<p>“Don’t let that bother you in the least,” -said Ashe. “He’s probably arranging things -so that whatever little chance we might have -had to nab ’em is gone.”</p> - -<p>The roars of laughter which followed this -remark were hearty and spontaneous.</p> - -<p>“Now, fellows,” went on Ashe, turning to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_277">[277]</span> -the other policemen, “you’d better scour the -country.” Then he added, addressing Tom: -“No, I’m not going to tell you how Hank -Styles and his men came to be suspected—or -when. If Sergeant Erskine chooses to do so, -all right.”</p> - -<p>“Are we still under arrest?” laughed Sam.</p> - -<p>“Technically—yes,” returned Ashe. “I -want your word of honor that all will report -to the sergeant within a week’s time.”</p> - -<p>“You have it,” said Dave, calmly. “I suppose -we shall run across Bob Somers before -then.”</p> - -<p>At this remark the boys’ thoughts were -turned into another channel. Their apprehensions -returned. Tom walked over to the -window and poked his head outside, to see -that the long streamers of whitish mist were -being gradually driven away by the rays of -the rising sun. But in whatever direction he -looked empty stretches alone met his eye.</p> - -<p>The troopers, accompanied by the boys, -were soon outside searching for clues. In this -the young Cree was of material assistance. -Near the base of the hill, on a stretch of bare -earth, he pointed out the imprints of a horse’s<span class="pagenum" id="Page_278">[278]</span> -hoofs so sharp and clear as to indicate a rapid -pace. A bit further along a small bush was -partly flattened.</p> - -<p>“Tracks fresh,” said Thunderbolt. “Him -go up hill.”</p> - -<p>“Two of you had better ride in that direction, -while the others scout about over the -prairie,” said Ashe to his men.</p> - -<p>On returning to the ranch-house the trooper, -aided by Witmar, made a thorough search -for contraband goods. None, however, were -found.</p> - -<p>“A slick lot!” exclaimed the former. “I -reckon, though, they’ll never pull off any -more of their tricks around these parts. Now, -fellows, we must be off.”</p> - -<p>“Where to?” asked Sam.</p> - -<p>“We’ll stop at Jerry Duncan’s, on our way -to the post of police at the settlement.”</p> - -<p>The lads accompanied the policemen outside, -and watched them mount and ride away.</p> - -<p>As soon as their forms were lost to view behind -a rise in the rolling prairie plans were -made for the day. It was decided to divide -up into searching parties; some to explore the -hills, others to ride off into the open country.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_279">[279]</span>And although they continued their task until -nightfall not the slightest sign of the missing -Rambler could be found.</p> - -<p>Supper was eaten in dismal silence. Sunset, -twilight and night came on. Lanterns were -lighted and again placed in the windows. -Monotony and anxiety literally drove the lads -to their blankets. But none of them slept -well. And in their waking moments the all-absorbing -topic was continually discussed.</p> - -<p>Morning rolled around. They jumped up -unrefreshed, had a cold breakfast, and, following -this, horses were saddled. It was impossible -to banish from their minds the fear that -something might be amiss with Bob.</p> - -<p>No longer could the suspense be borne.</p> - -<p>Seizing eagerly upon a suggestion made by -Dave, Tom wrote a note and placed it on the -table.</p> - -<p>“Yes, sir—Jerry Duncan’s for us!” he cried. -“Gee, fellows! Bob may have gone off in -that direction and stopped in to see the ranchman.”</p> - -<p>It was a very faint hope, but better than -none.</p> - -<p>Following directions given by Ashe, the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_280">[280]</span> -lads started off, pushing their horses hard. -And never had their eyes seen a more welcome -sight than when Jerry Duncan’s ranch-house, -in its secluded situation among the -hills, appeared in view.</p> - -<p>As the big dog’s loud barking announced -their presence the smiling and genial owner -stepped hastily out of the door and almost -rushed toward them.</p> - -<p>“Welcome, boys!” he exclaimed, in his -most hearty tone. “Welcome!” His eyes ran -quickly over the group. A shadow seemed to -cross his face. “Ashe and Witmar were here -yesterday, and told me Bob Somers was missing. -It isn’t possible——”</p> - -<p>“Then you haven’t seen or heard anything -of him?” asked Tom, with painful apprehension.</p> - -<p>“Indeed I only wish I had.”</p> - -<p>This answer, although half expected, filled -the hearts of the boys with a sinking feeling. -They looked at one another in silence.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_281">[281]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER XXIV<br /> - -<span class="small">THE PRISONER</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">At</span> first Bob Somers, standing by the door -of the lonely cabin, almost thought his senses -were playing him a trick. But a second shout -caused his heart to quicken.</p> - -<p>Though the thick walls muffled the sound, -the words, “Help—help!” were clearly distinguishable.</p> - -<p>“By all that’s wonderful, what have I come -across?” he gasped. “What can it mean—some -one imprisoned?”</p> - -<p>He gave an answering hail, then attacked -the door with all the strength of his sturdy -muscles.</p> - -<p>“Help—help!”</p> - -<p>This appeal coming once more made Bob -Somers work with redoubled vigor. All his -efforts went for naught. As though built to -resist attack, the panels scarcely jarred beneath -his most furious onslaught.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_282">[282]</span>With his pulse quickened by excitement, -the Rambler, even in those busy moments, -asked himself over and over again what this -new mystery could mean. He was thankful -indeed that good fortune had led him into -this narrow gulch to aid some one in distress.</p> - -<p>“I’ll have to break in,” he decided.</p> - -<p>Taking a short-handled axe from his belt -he sent blows crashing one after another -around the lock. Chips of wood flew about -him. Crash—smack—bang! The sound of -rending wood and the sharp snap of splintering -panels told him that his work would soon -be over.</p> - -<p>Scarcely taking an instant to regain his -breath, he struck harder and harder, until at -last the lock was shattered, and the door, with -a convulsive movement, staggered back.</p> - -<p>But where was the man he had expected to -see?</p> - -<p>For a second Bob Somers’ eyes, blinded by -the brilliant light of out-of-doors, could discern -but little in the darkened interior. Then -the obscurity appeared to melt away, and in -place of the shadows he saw a mellow glow, -through which the furnishings revealed themselves<span class="pagenum" id="Page_283">[283]</span> -in blurred patches of darks and softened -lights.</p> - -<p>A glance showed him that the interior was -divided into two rooms. It was from the -other, then, that the shouts had come. Another -sturdy door lay between him and the -prisoner.</p> - -<p>The man shouted again.</p> - -<p>“I’ll get you out of there in a moment,” -yelled Bob.</p> - -<p>Attacking the second door, he finally burst -it open; and as the man stepped from the -black and forbidding enclosure Bob Somers -regarded him in speechless astonishment.</p> - -<p>For a few seconds the two stood gazing fixedly -into each other’s faces. Then the boy, -with a mighty effort, partly recovered his -composure.</p> - -<p>“Hello, Jed Warren!” he exclaimed, extending -his hand. “I guess you haven’t forgotten -the Rambler Club.”</p> - -<p>The eyes of Jed Warren, former cowpuncher, -later a member of the Royal Northwest -Mounted Police, were staring at him; -his mouth was open. The situation seemed -unreal—impossible. Here was a boy whom<span class="pagenum" id="Page_284">[284]</span> -he had last seen on Circle T Ranch in Wyoming; -and now to have him appear before his -vision in such an amazing manner staggered -his comprehension.</p> - -<p>“Bob—Bob Somers!” he gasped. “Bob!” -He seized the Rambler’s hand and wrung it -with powerful force. “I don’t—I can’t understand! -Bob, is this really you?”</p> - -<p>A revulsion of feeling came to Bob Somers. -He felt like dancing and shouting for joy. -Instead of a disheartening failure, his haphazard -trip had brought him the most wonderful -success. Right before him stood his -friend, Jed Warren, for whom every man on -the mounted force had been on the lookout. -And it had fallen to his lot not only to discover -his whereabouts, but to release him from -imprisonment.</p> - -<p>Yet, with the evidence before his eyes, Bob -Somers could scarcely realize it. And if he -was excited and astounded at the outcome -Jed Warren continued to be even more so. -The policeman passed his hand across his forehead -as though in a daze. He stared hard at -the lad and shook his head.</p> - -<p>“This has sure put my brain in a whirl,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_285">[285]</span> -Bob Somers,” he exclaimed. “I’ve got to get -some air mighty fast. Come—see if it seems -any more real outside.”</p> - -<p>The two were presently pacing up and down -in the bright sunlight. It didn’t seem any -more real, either. Their ready flow of words -was checked.</p> - -<p>“What will the fellows think?” the Rambler -kept repeating to himself. “Won’t they -give a yell when Jed Warren and I march -right up before them!”</p> - -<p>“No, I sure can’t get over it, Bob,” Jed -Warren exclaimed at length. “I guess I’ll -wake up in another minute an’ discover it -ain’t nothin’ but a dream.”</p> - -<p>Movement—and quick movement—was the -only thing which seemed to be able to calm -excited nerves and fast-beating hearts.</p> - -<p>For some time all Bob Somers could get out -of Jed was the fact that he had been captured -and imprisoned by smugglers, and for weeks -had not breathed the pure air of out-of-doors.</p> - -<p>“I can’t make it seem real to me, Bob,” Jed -kept repeating blankly. “I can’t, for a fact.”</p> - -<p>Reviewing the situation again Bob Somers -pictured the astonishment of Sergeant Erskine.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_286">[286]</span> -He thought of Billy Ashe; of Teddy -Banes. And although his sensibilities had -never been wounded by the remarks of either -he could not repress a feeling of triumph.</p> - -<p>They continued pacing to and fro in the -yellow glare which filled the narrow gulch -until the emotions of each began to slowly -subside. Then, feeling that a good meal was -far more important than explanations, Bob -Somers set to work.</p> - -<p>“There’s plenty o’ grub inside that thar -room,” explained the former cowpuncher. -“They shoved ’nuff in to keep me goin’ for a -spell.”</p> - -<p>Bob dashed toward the cabin, returning in -a few moments, his arms burdened with provisions. -He had never felt more joyous in his -life.</p> - -<p>A meal was quickly prepared. And perhaps -neither the former prisoner nor his rescuer -ever enjoyed one more. They lingered -over it a long time, too, often looking at each -other in silence, as though it was almost impossible -for them to realize their good fortune.</p> - -<p>At length Jed began to recount his experiences.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_287">[287]</span>“It ain’t such a long story, Bob,” he explained. -“You haven’t told me much about -yourselves yet; but you’ve mentioned seein’ -that thar Hank Styles.” The trooper scowled -angrily. “Every time I think of him an’ his -crowd my dander rises to the b’ilin’ point.”</p> - -<p>“I don’t blame you,” said the Rambler.</p> - -<p>“A little while back, when cattle rustlers -an’ smugglers had started things goin’ at a -lively rate, Sergeant Erskine gave me a ‘special’ -on the job. I tell you, Bob, I wanted to -make my mark on the force; an’ I thought it -would be the means of givin’ me the first big -boost.”</p> - -<p>“Well, I can just bet you did all you could,” -cried Bob.</p> - -<p>“You’re sartinly right. I worked day an’ -night. Sometimes I thought I had track of -’em. But nothin’ seemed to pan out; an’ I -began to get sick o’ the job.”</p> - -<p>“Remember saying something like that to -one of the border patrols?”</p> - -<p>“Sure thing. Why?”</p> - -<p>“He got an idea you were tired of the -force.”</p> - -<p>Jed Warren shook his head emphatically.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_288">[288]</span>“Then he didn’t get it straight, Bob. I can -see you’ve got some interesting things to tell -me, so I’ll make short work o’ this here tale -of mine.”</p> - -<p>“I have,” laughed Bob.</p> - -<p>“Of course I knew a lot of ranchmen an’ -cowpunchers. Some of ’em used to hang -around the Cree village; an’ I kind of thought -that a feller named Hank Styles an’ some of -his men seemed to be takin’ things purty -easy.”</p> - -<p>“So he was the ringleader, eh?” inquired -Bob.</p> - -<p>“He sartinly were. Honest, Bob, I hate to -admit it, but I never suspicioned him. He -seemed always so friendly, an’ sayin’ a smart -young chap like me was bound to git ahead; -an’, somehow, that kind o’ dope got me, Bob.”</p> - -<p>Jed Warren paused. His eyes flashed as he -began again:</p> - -<p>“Several times, in passin’ that way, I -stopped in to have a friendly chat with Styles. -He treated me fine. Nothin’, he said, was too -good for a trooper of the Northwest Mounted. -I fell for that, too, Bob.” Warren’s tone became -sorrowful.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_289">[289]</span>“What a sly old duffer!” exclaimed Bob.</p> - -<p>“Yes! An’ all the time I was askin’ myself -why them thar fellers didn’t fix up the ranch-house, -an’ make it a comfortable place to live -in. I talked to Hank about it, an’ he laughed. -‘We’re out here for the dough, Warren,’ he -says; ‘it ain’t worth while to take the time -an’ trouble.’ Even that didn’t open me eyes.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, you can’t blame yourself,” said Bob, -consolingly.</p> - -<p>“I’m not so sure. I wouldn’t say it to -everybody, Bob, but I kind o’ think their -smooth, oily ways was what made me miss -connections. It’s a bitter story, an’ it makes -me feel mighty bitter to tell it.”</p> - -<p>Bob nodded sympathetically.</p> - -<p>“I were a-ridin’ about the prairie one black -night when I happened to think that Hank -Styles’ place was purty near. ‘Wal,’ says I, -‘it’s me for a canter over to the big front -door.’”</p> - -<p>“Ah!” cried Bob. “Now we’re coming to -the climax.”</p> - -<p>“Hank an’ a couple o’ his cowpunchers -were there, an’, as usual, treated me jist as -nice as pie. Though it did strike me they<span class="pagenum" id="Page_290">[290]</span> -looked kind o’ odd. They kept sayin’: ‘Well, -Jed, I guess you’ll be off in a few minutes, -eh?’ ‘Nary,’ says I; ‘right here seems too -good.’”</p> - -<p>“What happened?” asked Bob, breathlessly.</p> - -<p>“About an hour arterward I thought it -were time to skip. So I mounted me nag an’ -started to ride around the house. ‘Why, -which way are you goin’, Jed?’ hollers one. -‘In the opposite direction from which I come,’ -says I, laughin’. Hank Styles laughed, too. -Wal, Bob, in a jokin’ sort o’ way, they tried -to steer me off in another course. But, jist -the same, I rides toward the rear, an’ almost -bumps into a big wagon.”</p> - -<p>“Ah ha!” exclaimed Bob.</p> - -<p>“‘Hello!’ says I. ‘What’s this?’ ‘Only -a chuck wagon full o’ grub for men on the -range,’ replies a feller, in a queer kind o’ tone. -All of a sudden, Bob, I got mighty suspicious, -an’ managed to put my hand inside. It -landed kerplunk on the knee o’ some one -a-sittin’ there.”</p> - -<p>“Great Scott!” cried Bob.</p> - -<p>“Thinks I, there’s sure somethin’ wrong.”<span class="pagenum" id="Page_291">[291]</span> -Warren smiled grimly. “An’ the trouble -was, they knew I’d investigate pretty fast. -In about two seconds I felt cold steel pressed -against me side. ‘You’ll come right in the -house, Warren,’ says Hank. ‘Don’t make no -fuss.’ Yes—they had me. I went in.”</p> - -<p>“Gee, what an extraordinary tale!” cried -Bob.</p> - -<p>Warren quickly told of his later experiences. -Without delay he was escorted under heavy -guard to the cabin in the gulch and confined -in the inner room. Hank Styles and his men, -although furiously angry, treated him with -consideration, and explained that when all -their goods were disposed of they would leave -the country and notify the police of his whereabouts.</p> - -<p>“But it took them a mighty long time to -finish up, didn’t it?” exclaimed the Rambler.</p> - -<p>“Wal, they probably had a great lot of -stuff,” said Jed. “An’ mebbe they had to go -a bit slow, too. I wouldn’t wonder if Styles -an’ his men knew a lot about the cattle stealin’, -besides.”</p> - -<p>“Did they leave a guard here?” asked Bob.</p> - -<p>“Sure thing.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_292">[292]</span>A sudden idea had flashed into Bob Somers’ -mind. Perhaps the object of the men in drawing -lots was to determine which of the three -should ride over to the gulch and notify the -sentinel to make his escape.</p> - -<p>“Did you hear anything unusual last night, -Jed?” he asked.</p> - -<p>“Yes, siree!” responded the policeman. -“A feller rode up; an’ though it wasn’t so -easy to hear inside those thick walls, I could -tell from the excited way he an’ the guard -began to chin that somethin’ was up.”</p> - -<p>“Go on!” cried the highly gratified Bob -Somers.</p> - -<p>“I pressed me ear to the door, an’ by -listenin’ hard, managed to catch a lot. ‘I -tell you the same bunch has jist rid’ up to the -house,’ says one. ‘They know all about us; -an’ ye kin be sure the perlice ain’t fur behind -’em.’”</p> - -<p>Bob laughed gleefully.</p> - -<p>“What happened then?” he demanded.</p> - -<p>“Purty soon one of ’em yells: ‘So-long, -Warren. We’re goin’ to skip. Don’t be -skeered. Ye’ll git out soon.’ But say, Bob, -what do you know about it?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_293">[293]</span>The lad immediately explained.</p> - -<p>Jed opened his eyes wide with astonishment.</p> - -<p>“So yours was the crowd, eh?” he cried. -“Wal, wal! I wonder if I’ll ever git over -this, Bob. But fire away. I want to hear the -rest o’ your story.”</p> - -<p>Warren followed every word with the utmost -eagerness. A flash in his eye and a -tightening of the lips indicated his feelings -when he heard about the attack on Tom Clifton.</p> - -<p>“From your description, I think I know -the chap, Bob,” he exclaimed. “I can’t understand -those yells and pistol shots you tell -me about, though.”</p> - -<p>“We may find out yet,” grinned the lad.</p> - -<p>“I’m proud o’ you, Bob,” declared the -policeman, emphatically, when all was told, -“I sartinly am. You’ve done some wonderfully -slick work, but this is about the slickest -yet.”</p> - -<p>Then, to the Rambler’s embarrassment, he -abruptly started on a new tack.</p> - -<p>“Bob,” he demanded, “was my horse ever -found?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_294">[294]</span>“Yes, Jed,” answered Bob.</p> - -<p>“Where?”</p> - -<p>“On the other side of the international -boundary line.”</p> - -<p>Warren shook his fist savagely in the air.</p> - -<p>“I think I see through their game!” he -cried, springing to his feet. “Now see here”—he -planted himself squarely before the lad—“did -Sergeant Erskine think—think I was—I -was”—he seemed to utter the words with -difficulty—“a deserter?”</p> - -<p>“Yes,” answered Bob, frankly. “But we -stood up for you as solidly as a stone wall, -Jed.”</p> - -<p>The policeman had been able to bear his -capture and imprisonment with fortitude; he -had accepted it as one of those incidents liable -to happen to one in his position. But the -thought of having the stigma of “deserter” -attached to his name made his blood fairly -boil.</p> - -<p>“Come on, Bob,” he exclaimed. “I can’t -lose another instant. I reckon your horse -can carry double. We’ll hit the trail for Jerry -Duncan’s.”</p> - -<p>“Jerry Duncan’s?” queried Bob, in surprise.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_295">[295]</span> -“Why not Hank Styles’, where I left -the crowd?”</p> - -<p>“Because Duncan’s is nearer. Besides, a -good trail leads there. And from his ranch-house -you can skirt around the hills and -reach Hank Styles’ without any trouble.”</p> - -<p>Dashing back into the cabin Jed Warren reappeared -a moment later with his scarlet coat—the -coat he had worn so proudly.</p> - -<p>“Where’s your horse, Bob?” he demanded, -hurriedly. “I reckon you know how I feel -about this thing. Nobody before ever said -that Jed Warren weren’t on the square.”</p> - -<p>“And I don’t believe anybody ever will -again,” said Bob, emphatically. “If those -chaps had known you half as well as we do, -Jed, they never could have believed it possible.”</p> - -<p>The athletic young policeman drew himself -up to his full height, and there was a huskiness -in his voice as he exclaimed:</p> - -<p>“Bob, when you an’ your crowd are friends -to a feller you’re real friends. Shake!”</p> - -<p>Bob wrung his hand warmly. Then, closing -the door of the cabin, the two started -briskly off in the direction of the horse.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_296">[296]</span>Every step of the way Bob was picturing in -his mind the astonishment, the joy, their -arrival was bound to create. He thought how -the anxious watchers would be repaid for all -their worry.</p> - -<p>The horse was in good condition to continue -the journey. Bob Somers quickly mounted; -then Jed sprang up behind him, and in this -fashion they started off to carry the news of a -most sensational event to the Canadian authorities.</p> - -<p>Jed Warren, being thoroughly familiar with -the topography of the country, directed their -course. Bob Somers soon found himself riding -along the trail by the base of the hill. -There were still many ridges to be crossed, so -the sturdy little nag was not pushed too hard.</p> - -<p>It was very trying on Jed Warren’s patience, -though under the influence of Bob -Somers’ cheery remarks the stern lines on his -face gradually relaxed, to be replaced at length -by a grin.</p> - -<p>“I sure think it’s a rich joke on me, Bob,” -he exclaimed. “How Hank Styles an’ his -men must have laughed when everybody fell -for that little trick o’ theirs.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_297">[297]</span>Up and down hill they jogged, across broad -or narrow valleys, with a soft breeze blowing in -their faces and white clouds floating in the -field of blue above.</p> - -<p>The journey seemed very long to both, but, -like all journeys, finally approached an end. -Reaching the crest of a hill they looked -down, to see Jerry Duncan’s substantial ranch-house -about a quarter of a mile beyond at the -base of the slope.</p> - -<p>“Hooray!” shouted Bob.</p> - -<p>And now he sent his pony pounding along -faster and faster until they were traveling at -a pace which might have been trying to less -experienced riders.</p> - -<p>“That’s right, Bob; whoop ’er up!” cried -Jed.</p> - -<p>He gave a long, rousing yell, which produced -a most extraordinary result.</p> - -<p>A crowd came rushing out on the porch and -down the steps of the house. And every one -among them eyed the approaching horse and -its double burden with apparently the greatest -astonishment.</p> - -<p>And Bob Somers was astonished, too; for, -as the nag galloped across the last stretch, he<span class="pagenum" id="Page_298">[298]</span> -recognized his friends—the friends whom he -had thought were miles away.</p> - -<p>And there was Jerry Duncan, his round, -smiling face wearing a ludicrous expression of -amazement.</p> - -<p>“Hello—hello!” yelled Bob. He tried to -control the ring of triumph in his voice—to -still the excitement which gripped him.</p> - -<p>They swung up amidst the group and -sprang to the ground. Then, for the first -time, the boys seemed to find their tongues. -But it was not until Larry Burnham caught -the name “Jed Warren” passing from lip to -lip that he understood what the riotous, uproarious -demonstration was all about.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_299">[299]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER XXV<br /> - -<span class="small">EVERYBODY HAPPY</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">Yes</span>, it was a riotous and uproarious demonstration. -And the noise which echoed and -reëchoed between the hills was probably the -greatest those narrow confines had ever heard.</p> - -<p>The boys slapped Jed Warren on the back -and wrung his hand, until the policeman, in -sheer self-defense, was obliged to back up -against the porch and hold them at bay.</p> - -<p>“Enough, fellows, enough!” he gasped.</p> - -<p>“What did I tell you, Larry Burnham?” -howled Tom, above the uproar. “Wasn’t I -just sure we could do it? Hurrah for Jed -Warren! Hurrah for everybody!”</p> - -<p>“Order, order!” shouted the genial Mr. -Duncan, red-faced and happy. “Order, I say, -boys! Let’s get at the bottom of this thing -before I succumb from excitement.”</p> - -<p>And now, unable to reach Jed Warren, the -lads were repeating their manifestations of -enthusiasm on Bob Somers, until he, too,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_300">[300]</span> -sought relief by the side of the grinning policeman.</p> - -<p>It was only after exhausted nature came to -aid the calmer members of the group that the -hubbub began to cease.</p> - -<p>“I sure knew you fellers was a lively lot,” -cried Jed Warren, “but it strikes me you’ve -got more ginger than ever.”</p> - -<p>Then began a fusillade of questions. No -one heard Jerry Duncan’s invitation to come -in the house; no one paid the slightest attention -to anybody but Jed Warren and Bob -Somers. Tom, triumphant, could scarcely refrain -from shouting. What a superb surprise -they had in store for Billy Ashe and Teddy -Banes. Perhaps they, and all the rest who -had had the temerity to reflect on the ability -of the Rambler Club, would now reverse their -opinions.</p> - -<p>Yes, it was a glorious occasion, and Larry -Burnham enjoyed it as much as any one; for, -he reflected, it was his running away and -leading the others into the territory where -the smugglers worked that had indirectly -brought about such a happy result.</p> - -<p>It was a long, long time before every one<span class="pagenum" id="Page_301">[301]</span> -was satisfied. Not a single question seemed -to remain unasked; nor could another response -add to the information already gained. -Bob Somers was the hero; every one had -known it before—but now they were doubly -certain. They absolutely refused to listen to -the Rambler’s contention that good fortune -had played the star rôle.</p> - -<p>“Get out!” scoffed Tom. “It was brains—brains—and -nothing else. Were we worried? -Oh, a trifle. But of course the crowd knew -you were all right every minute of the time.”</p> - -<p>And at this point Mr. Jerry Duncan managed -to make his presence felt.</p> - -<p>“You simply have to come inside now,” he -exclaimed. “The smugglers haven’t anything -on me, Jed. I’m going to take you -prisoner. Inside with him, boys! The -Mounted Police have no terrors for us.”</p> - -<p>Instantly the ranchman’s hand fell on Jed -Warren’s shoulder, and, ably assisted by his -courageous band, he hustled this particular -member of the Royal Northwest Mounted Police -unceremoniously into the big dining-room -of the ranch-house.</p> - -<p>“The sentence for your ‘desertion’ is: that<span class="pagenum" id="Page_302">[302]</span> -you shall be allowed freedom after eating one -of the best meals ever prepared in this place.”</p> - -<p>“And we will ably assist!” cried Dave. -“These little incidents that are always occurring -to the Rambler Club do give me an -uncommonly good appetite.”</p> - -<p>“Shortly, you shall be sentenced to make a -speech,” cried Mr. Duncan.</p> - -<p>“I’ll make two, if agreeable,” laughed Dave.</p> - -<p>The dinner was, naturally, a lively and jolly -affair. Every one rose to the occasion. Jed -made the first “oration.” He laughingly expressed -the opinion that the Canadian government -could not do better than to employ the -entire Rambler Club to act as an advisory -board.</p> - -<p>“Never,” cried the jovial Mr. Duncan, at -the conclusion of the “banquet,” “have I enjoyed -myself so much.”</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_303">[303]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER XXVI<br /> - -<span class="small">FACING THE SERGEANT</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">In</span> the outpost barracks of which Sergeant -Erskine was in charge a great crowd had assembled. -It included the lads, Jed Warren, -Billy Ashe, Witmar, and Teddy Banes.</p> - -<p>The half-breed’s demeanor toward the boys -had entirely changed. And the bluff old sergeant, -too, often looked at them with an expression -in which a great deal of admiration -was apparent.</p> - -<p>The rescue of Jed Warren had created a -tremendous sensation. The stigma of “Deserter” -was removed. And his superiors expressed -as much regret for ever having suspected -him as the dignity of their position -would allow.</p> - -<p>“Young men,” began Sergeant Erskine, in -his crisp, businesslike tone, “you were ordered -to report to me by Private William -Ashe.” He smiled rather quizzically. “Of -course I know, in view of the unusual circumstances, -you would have done so anyway.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_304">[304]</span>“We certainly should,” affirmed Tom.</p> - -<p>“Now, I should like to hear the details of -your trip. Somers, kindly oblige.”</p> - -<p>Bob immediately began; and in his sentences, -directly to the point, recounted everything -which had a bearing on the case.</p> - -<p>As he concluded the sergeant nodded -toward the half-breed.</p> - -<p>“Banes,” he exclaimed, “I believe you can -clear up some of these points. Begin, for instance, -with those mystifying cries and pistol -shots which so startled the boys.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, that’s just what we want to hear -about,” cried Dick Travers.</p> - -<p>“I should say we do,” put in Tom.</p> - -<p>Teddy Banes turned his impassive face -toward the expectant Ramblers.</p> - -<p>“I sure think I know,” he said, his harsh, -guttural voice filling the room. “Boys go -with me to Cree village. Sometimes I see -cowpunchers there, and on that day three—four, -maybe.”</p> - -<p>“And so did I!” cried Tom.</p> - -<p>For an instant a gleam of humor seemed to -play in Teddy Banes’ eyes.</p> - -<p>“An’ you talk much—very much,” he exclaimed.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_305">[305]</span> -“You say: ‘No; never we leave -the Northwest Territories until Jed Warren is -found.’ And you say that very loud.”</p> - -<p>“Oh!” said Tom, looking a trifle embarrassed. -“Suppose I did? Wasn’t it true?”</p> - -<p>“Ah—much true! But it do harm. Listen—I -tell you how. Those men Hank -Styles’ cowpunchers—but smugglers, too!”</p> - -<p>“Thunderation!” gasped Tom, his expression -indicating much surprise. “If I’d only -known that——”</p> - -<p>“Nearly all of us would make fewer mistakes,” -interrupted Sergeant Erskine, in a -kindly tone, “if we could only have information -in advance instead of after something -has happened. It is not always wise to speak -our thoughts too plainly before strangers.”</p> - -<p>Tom Clifton flushed. He realized that his -actions hadn’t been altogether wise.</p> - -<p>“Yes, smugglers,” went on Teddy Banes, -in his imperturbable way. “They hear what -you say. They see six big, strong boys. They -get scare, maybe.”</p> - -<p>“And I’m afraid the rest of the crowd did -some hollering, too,” laughed Dick Travers. -“I know I said the same thing myself.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_306">[306]</span> -Everybody thinking Jed was a deserter -worked us up a bit, I can tell you.”</p> - -<p>“And we had determined to do everything -possible to learn the true facts,” put in Sam -Randall, quietly.</p> - -<p>“Smugglers take no chances.” Banes was -speaking again. “The men say: maybe these -boys for us make trouble. They come too -near where we work. But we fix ’em.”</p> - -<p>“Banes’ explanation is undoubtedly correct,” -interrupted Sergeant Erskine. “Of -course, at that time, none of these cowpunchers -was even suspected. They probably talked -it over and decided upon a plan which they -thought would speedily drive you back to -civilization. Several of them followed on -your trail and were responsible for the dreadful -night alarms. But the men did not know -that you are seasoned veterans of the plains.”</p> - -<p>The sergeant’s eyes twinkled humorously, -and the entire crowd joined in the laugh -which followed.</p> - -<p>“How about that man who attacked me, -sergeant?” asked Tom.</p> - -<p>“We have also a very ready explanation -for that.” The officer stroked his iron-gray<span class="pagenum" id="Page_307">[307]</span> -moustache reflectively. “From your description -Private Ashe immediately came to the -conclusion that he was one of the cowpunchers -who had seen your party at the Cree village, -and also overheard what was said in regard -to Jed.”</p> - -<p>“Great Cæsar!” murmured Tom.</p> - -<p>“The smugglers with the wagon evidently -saw your fire, and this man concluded it -would be wise to investigate. So he reconnoitered. -He knew well enough that if any -one should happen to see the wagon there -might be trouble. He was no doubt thoroughly -alarmed when he discovered your -identity. In his suspicious state of mind it -must have appeared that you were already on -their track.”</p> - -<p>“Yes; there can be no doubt about it,” admitted -Dick Travers.</p> - -<p>“If your slumber had not been broken we -may reasonably conclude that the man would, -when the vehicle was beyond all chance of -discovery, have simply rejoined his comrades. -But you happened to jump up; and he, fearing -recognition, concluded to take you prisoner.”</p> - -<p>“You see,” put in Jed Warren, “Hank<span class="pagenum" id="Page_308">[308]</span> -knew their game was up. They couldn’t keep -me in the cabin indefinitely. So the idea was -to wind up their business as quickly as possible, -then skip out.”</p> - -<p>“May I put a question to Mr. Ashe?” spoke -up Larry Burnham.</p> - -<p>“Certainly,” responded the sergeant.</p> - -<p>“How did you happen to get on the trail -of the wagon that night?” asked the blond -lad, turning toward the trooper.</p> - -<p>“Well, we were working in that locality, -and on the lookout. I reckon the men were -in a desperate hurry, or they wouldn’t have -taken a chance on a night when the moon -would be up. We didn’t know where the -wagon came from or its destination.”</p> - -<p>“What made you think they were the -smugglers?” asked Sam.</p> - -<p>“Their actions fitted in so well with other information -we had that both Witmar and myself -concluded there could be no doubt about it.”</p> - -<p>“Aye, aye!” said Witmar.</p> - -<p>“I will finish the story,” broke in Erskine, -in his blunt, authoritative tone. “Private -Ashe, armed with an excellent description of -Clifton’s assailant, immediately reported to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_309">[309]</span> -the superintendent of police at a post in the -settlement. He conferred with him regarding -his suspicions. What followed would -make quite a story, boys, but the upshot of -it was that they decided to make an early -morning descent upon Hank Styles’ ranch-house -and capture the entire band.”</p> - -<p>“And the joke was on us,” murmured -Witmar.</p> - -<p>“One thing I don’t quite understand,” said -Dave, “is this: if the wagon belonged to Hank -Styles, why were the men so foolish as to return -to headquarters, knowing that the finding -of the vehicle must throw suspicion upon -them?”</p> - -<p>“There was nothing to identify it as belonging -to the ranch. They were too sly to -be caught so easily.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, now it is all clear to me,” declared -the “historian.”</p> - -<p>“There is nothing else to say,” remarked -Teddy Banes. “Everybody know everything.”</p> - -<p>“On the contrary, Banes, I have a few remarks -to add,” said the grizzled sergeant.</p> - -<p>“We shall be very glad to hear them,” exclaimed -Bob.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_310">[310]</span>“In a way, you have proved good friends -to the smugglers, who were cowboys and cattle -rustlers between times. By a peculiar -combination of circumstances you appeared -at exactly the right time to enable them to -escape the clutches of the law.”</p> - -<p>“It was curious,” said Larry.</p> - -<p>“But, on the other hand, you have proved -a better friend to the police. If it hadn’t been -for your clever work, Somers”—his stern eyes -fell full on the Rambler’s face—“Jed Warren -might not have been found for many days. -Therefore we rather think the balance is -entirely in your favor. So I take the opportunity, -as an officer of the Northwest Mounted, -to thank you and your fellow members of the -club.”</p> - -<p>“And I am sure we highly appreciate your -kind words,” said Bob, while the rest of the -crowd voiced their approval in the most hearty -and spontaneous fashion.</p> - -<p>“I know we shall never forget the great -time we’ve had in Canada,” cried Tom, his -face glowing with pride. He looked toward -Billy Ashe, and a twinkle came into his eye. -“And the police are certainly a mighty fine<span class="pagenum" id="Page_311">[311]</span> -lot—even if they did place us under -‘arrest.’”</p> - -<p>“What are your plans now?” inquired -Sergeant Erskine, joining in the laugh which -ran around the room.</p> - -<p>“We shall probably camp out a bit,” -answered Bob, “and perhaps try to get a sight -of some big game.”</p> - -<p>“At any rate. I hope you will mess with us -to-night?”</p> - -<p>The boys, heartily thanking the sergeant, -accepted his kind invitation; then, not wishing -to take up more of his time, withdrew.</p> - -<p>It was mighty pleasant for the boys to see -Jed Warren, resplendent in his scarlet coat, -and to reflect how good fortune had aided them -in their fight to bring out the truth.</p> - -<p>Everything around the barracks was so -agreeable that they not only stopped to mess -that evening but remained for several days.</p> - -<p>Not long before the time for their departure -arrived, an unsigned note addressed to Sergeant -Erskine was brought by a mail carrier. It -stated briefly that the missing Jed Warren -could be found in the cabin in the gulch, the -location of which was accurately described.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_312">[312]</span>“This shows,” commented Sergeant Erskine, -exhibiting it to the boys, “that Hank Styles -has some good in his make-up, after all.”</p> - -<p>“Bob,” exclaimed Tom, suddenly, “I guess -we’d better be on the move. You know the -time is rushing around fast. I can almost see -myself getting ready for that prep school now—and—and——”</p> - -<p>“And we know you’re not thinking about -school books, or examinations, or any of those -things which tax a fellow’s head so confoundedly,” -interrupted Dick, with a laugh.</p> - -<p>“Of course not!” cried Tom.</p> - -<p>Above a loud burst of hilarity which greeted -his words, Larry Burnham’s voice rose high -and clear.</p> - -<p>“Hooray—hooray for the Rambler Club’s -Football Eleven!” he cried.</p> - -<p>And the others enthusiastically joined in.</p> - -<p class="center">Other Books in this Series are:</p> - -<div class="poetry-container"> -<div class="poetry"> -<p>THE RAMBLER CLUB AFLOAT<br /> -THE RAMBLER CLUB’S WINTER CAMP<br /> -THE RAMBLER CLUB IN THE MOUNTAINS<br /> -THE RAMBLER CLUB ON CIRCLE T RANCH<br /> -THE RAMBLER CLUB AMONG THE LUMBERJACKS<br /> -THE RAMBLER CLUB’S GOLD MINE<br /> -THE RAMBLER CLUB’S AEROPLANE<br /> -THE RAMBLER CLUB’S HOUSE-BOAT<br /> -THE RAMBLER CLUB’S BALL NINE<br /> -THE RAMBLER CLUB’S MOTOR CAR<br /> -THE RAMBLER CLUB’S FOOTBALL ELEVEN</p> -</div></div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div class="transnote"> -<p class="ph1">TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES:</p> - -<p>Obvious typographical errors have been corrected.</p> - -<p>Inconsistencies in hyphenation have been standardized.</p> - -<p>Archaic or variant spelling has been retained.</p> - -<p>The title of the book on page 9 is shown incorrectly using the word <i>Among</i> instead of the word <i>With</i>.</p> -</div></div> - -<div style='display:block; margin-top:4em'>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE RAMBLER CLUB WITH THE NORTHWEST MOUNTED ***</div> -<div style='text-align:left'> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Updated editions will replace the previous one—the old editions will -be renamed. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works, -so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United -States without permission and without paying copyright -royalties. 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