"Of course we will," said Billy, as he gave her a hug and kiss, for she had been almost like a mother to him.
"Yes, I think we have everything," said Frank, as he looked over the packs on the backs of the burros, and saw to the things he and his brother and chum were to carry. The Racer boys had gone camping many times, and, though the method of procedure might be somewhat different on the prairies, still the general rules to be observed were the same.
"Then good-bye and good luck to you," said the ranch owner. "Don't forget to let me know when you leave Golden Peak, as I'll then shut the big water gate and start the flood."
"We will," promised Billy. "Though we may stay there four days instead of three, in case we come across the treasure."
"In that case you may," laughed his uncle.
"Forward then!" cried Andy, as he leaped to the back of his horse. Or, rather he tried to leap to the saddle, but his movement was unexpected, and his steed a trifle frisky, so, as a matter of course, Andy missed his mark and came down on the ground rather heavily.
"If that's the way you're going to march I'm not with you!" exclaimed Billy, with a broad grin.
"Come here and I'll pick you up," invited Frank, from the saddle of his own mount.
"Huh! You fellows think it's funny," grumbled Andy, as he slowly arose. This time he was more careful, and successfully reached the leather. There was a chorus of good-byes, a shout of encouragement from a group of cowboys, who fired off their big revolvers, and a waving of Mrs. Thornton's apron in lieu of a handkerchief.
"Vely much nice boys!" called Sing Lee, his yellow face all smiles. "Goo' luck!" and he threw after them one of his queer shoes, filled with rice.