Since Vose Adams had committed himself to Russell and Nellie’s interests, there was no more talking at cross purposes. The object of the three was the same, and they sat down on the rocks for consultation. There was abundance of time in which to do this, since those whom they feared would not leave the cañon until the return of their guide, and he did not mean to go 282 back until the day was so far spent that further delay was unavoidable.
“They will be mad when they see me,” he said with a grin, “but it won’t do them any good and I’ll fix up a yarn about gettin’ on and then off your trail agin, that they’ll have to be satisfied with.”
“That will serve for to-night, but you will all be astir at an early hour to-morrow morning.”
“They will still have to depend on me to guide ’em, and I rather think I can steer ’em off the track, so as to give you plenty of time to get out of the way.”
“How?”
“As soon as they leave the kenyon, that is as soon as the way is clear, you must ride back to it and put on all steam for Sacramento, for I understand, leftenant, that you’ve give up your idee of finding a new route through the mountains.”
“I have.”
“You’ve got two good animals and you’ll gain a full day’s start.”
“You forget about poor Cap,” said Nellie.
“So I did! if he can’t go with you, you’ll have to leave him behind and ride double, but it will be rather tough on your horse, leftenant.”