"But it's a mighty poor thing if the other fellow suspects and calls," said Jack.
"Waal," drawled Gallup, "darn my punkins! I s'pose I'm in fer it, but I kinder wisht I was to hum on the farm."
Frank knew the Vermonter well enough not to fancy by those words that Ephraim was badly frightened. It was Gallup's way of expressing himself, and, even though he might be afraid in advance, the tall, lank fellow always showed up well "in a pinch."
"Then it's settled," said Merry. "We all go."
"Joe him not talk all he find out," put in the Indian.
"Is there more? Well, give it to us quick. There are many miles of alkali between here and Sunk Hole."
"Joe him hear men whisper 'bout gal."
"Eh? About a girl?"
"Ugh!"