Off his horse he sprang, leaving the animal to stand, and then, to the surprise of all, he ran to the tree behind which Bart was concealed, dashed around it, and gave a shout of triumph.
A moment later the sheriff reappeared, dragging Hodge by the collar.
“Don’t try ter git away!” he commanded. “If ye do, you’ll be sorry. I don’t fool with a critter of your caliber.”
“Let go!” cried Bart, indignantly. “What are you trying to do with me? Take your hands off, sir!”
“Not till I lodge ye behind bars, young feller. You’re under arrest, so cool down and keep still.”
“Why am I arrested?”
“Oh, you don’t know; oh, no!”
“Answer my question, sir! Why am I arrested?”
“Now, don’t go to gettin’ funny and givin’ orders. It ain’t necessary to answer.”
Frank stepped forward.