“How do you feel?” asked Gus. “I hope there are no bones broken.”
“I feel sore all over. Give me some of the water.”
Cottle gave him a drink, and carefully noted its effect.
“Did it hurt when it went down?” he asked.
“No.”
“Then that’s all right. If you were injured internally you couldn’t drink without having a pain. Better take it easy for a little while though.”
“I’ll have to,” replied Oliver with a suppressed groan; “I’m too sore to move much. Where is my mule?”
“Up on the path with the others. I’ll turn them back to the other trail. All hands take it easy for an hour or so till I get back.”
In a moment more Cottle was gone. Gus and Mr. Whyland sat down beside Oliver, one on either side.