The little man's face was so serious that the lads even forbore to smile.
"We thank you for your friendship," said Hal quietly, "and I assure you that it will not be laughed at. Friendships are not to be treated lightly."
"I knew you would see it that way," was the response. "If at any time I can be of service to you, command me."
He arose and made them the bow of a cavalier.
The meal finished, Hal pushed back his chair and arose.
"We might as well be on our way," he said. "Come."
They left the room and made their way to the place where they had tied their horses. Hal started back with a cry of surprise.
The horses were not there, but upon the ground, a bullet wound in his forehead, lay the man whom Hal had left to guard them.