[CHAPTER X]
A MIDNIGHT ALARM
“Did you hear that?” asked Ned in a whisper of his two chums.
“Sure,” nodded Jerry.
“What about it?” Bob said. “Hasn’t he got a right to buy cattle where he pleases?”
“Yes, but that’s dad’s ranch—his and your father’s,” went on Ned in low tones. “Maybe this man knows something about the stealing of the stock.”
“Well, don’t go up and ask him if he does,” returned Jerry, quickly, for Ned evinced a desire to approach the stranger.
“Huh! Think I’m as rash as that? But don’t you call it queer?”
“Hum! Well, maybe,” said Jerry, slowly. He was not prompt to jump at conclusions.