"I seldom play cards," said Merry apologetically.
"Well, you want to keep your eyes open!" exclaimed Boxer sharply. "These chaps may try to skin us."
At this Gentle Bob looked up and said:
"I do not mind a little faking none whatever, but I sure objects to being called a skin, either by a dog or his master, so I opine it will be best for somebody to apologize."
And, as he made this remark, he suddenly whipped forth a pistol, with which he covered both Frank and the dog, but held the weapon more in Merry's direction.
Cimarron Bill's tool had found the opportunity he sought, and he meant to make the most of it.
Merry saw in the fellow's eyes the full extent of his evil purpose.
"If the apology is not forthcoming instanter," murmured the ruffian, "I shall puncture the wonderful talking dog with a bullet!"
Now, it seemed that Bob had Frank at a great disadvantage, but at this point Bart Hodge shoved the muzzle of a pistol against the fellow's ear and harshly commanded:
"Put up that gun—instanter! If you don't I'll blow the whole top of your head off!"