“Did you get him?”
A bloody handkerchief was wrapped around the big man’s hand, and a livid welt showed on his forehead. He smiled grimly as he dismounted, “I got the d——d skunk,” he answered savagely.
He turned to a group of Indians. “You fellers’d better look out for him when you go along; his eyesight’s kinda bad.”
Donald came to the front of the judges’ stand and held up his hand for silence. Gradually the hum of voices died away and the crowd turned to face him.
“As you know, we are to take up a collection to add to the Company’s purse. The gentleman below,” pointing down at Andy, “will hold the hat. We have witnessed an exhibition of matchless skill and pluck. Give as you feel.”
The crowd cheered lustily. Then, jostling each other good-naturedly like a lot of school-boys, they formed in a long queue.
Andy started the contribution by giving his whole roll of bills. Money showered upon him until he was forced to call for another hat.
“Fightin’ ” Jack came to Donald in great perturbation. “Say! Our gang’s all stony broke. Can we sign a due-bill?”
Donald called the time-keeper.
“Make her out for twenty bucks for each of us,” said “Fightin’ ” Jack.