"And I'm not afraid of you. If you try any of your dirty work again you'll be sorry for it," went on Dale, and then passed into the tool house on his errand.
At first Baptiste Ducrot was on the point of arguing further. But then he saw Owen approaching, and he slouched away through the snow, his head bent low and a wicked look on his face.
"I see you've met him," said Owen, on coming up. "What did he say?"
"Not much, Owen. What can he say?"
"Did you mention the horse?"
"No; I am going to follow Mr. Paxton's advice and lie low."
"You be careful that he doesn't play you foul, Dale. When I get the chance I'll warn him to keep his distance."
"Oh, Owen; I don't want you to get into trouble on my account," cried Dale impulsively.
"Isn't this difficulty mine as well as yours?" came quickly from the older of the pair. "Haven't we sworn to be chums through thick and thin?"
"Yes, I know, but——"