“Lost from Mr. Silsbee's train,” said Clarence, pointing to the darkened west.
“Lost?—how long?”
“About three hours. I thought they'd come back for us,” said Clarence apologetically to this big, kindly man.
“And you kalkilated to wait here for 'em?”
“Yes, yes—I did—till I saw you.”
“Then why in thunder didn't you light out straight for us, instead of hanging round here and drawing us out?”
The boy hung his head. He knew his reasons were unchanged, but all at once they seemed very foolish and unmanly to speak out.
“Only that we were on the keen jump for Injins,” continued the stranger, “we wouldn't have seen you at all, and might hev shot you when we did. What possessed you to stay here?”
The boy was still silent. “Kla'uns,” said a faint, sleepy voice from the mesquite, “take me.” The rifle-shot had awakened Susy.
The stranger turned quickly towards the sound. Clarence started and recalled himself. “There,” he said bitterly, “you've done it now, you've wakened her! THAT'S why I stayed. I couldn't carry her over there to you. I couldn't let her walk, for she'd be frightened. I wouldn't wake her up, for she'd be frightened, and I mightn't find her again. There!” He had made up his mind to be abused, but he was reckless now that she was safe.