“I have it,” the rancher replied.
“I drove out here to make you a proposition,” Walz rattled on. “How about you and me teaming up for a bit of adventure?”
“You’re proposing we explore the Headless Hollow region?” said Warner.
“Why not? It’s a good time of year—everything’s in our favor. Since you have the map we may find a valuable mine site—or at least a cache of ore.”
“I don’t team up with a man on an hour’s notice.”
“I realize I’m a stranger,” Walz said, “but if you doubt my character, send a wire to anyone in Rocking Horse.”
“I don’t need testimonials to judge a man,” Warner replied dryly.
“How does the proposal strike you? The quicker we get started, the better I’d like it.”
Warner did not answer the motel owner’s question directly. Instead, he said, “No one has any business on Crazy Mountain without a good pair of legs. A trip such as you’re proposing would take a heap o’ planning. You’d need supplies—a list made out with care, because every pound you pack counts. Footwear’s important, too.”
“Oh, mere details. I can buy anything I need in an hour’s time. The essential thing is to have a guide who knows the country.”