The foreman pointed to the tent. But the lad not yet having finished his toilet, all hands were obliged to stand about waiting for him. They did so with much impatience. Stacy took all the time he needed, apparently not believing that there was any necessity for haste.
At last he sauntered out smiling broadly.
"I think you owe us an explanation, at least," announced Mr. Simms, a peculiar smile playing about the corners of his lips. He had intended to be stern, but the sight of Chunky's good-natured face disarmed him at once, as it did most people.
"'Bout what?" asked the lad.
"Sending us out to the foothills, telling us the cowmen were attacking us."
Stacy's eyes opened widely.
"Never said so."
"What did you say, then?"
"Nothing."
"I guess we are all dreaming," laughed the rancher. "Will you please tell me what did happen then, when you started us away?"