"Better go along with us now, then," suggested Stevens. "We won't have no more rough house, leastwise till we get to the San Antone Range, eh?"
"No," replied Parry. "We have a pack train to drag along. Besides, you fellows travel too fast for us. We'll take our time and join you later."
The bath and the hot coffee had served to quiet Bud Stevens's bubbling spirits. He was by this time a more rational being.
After they had finished the meal Bud drew Tad Butler aside confidentially.
"Say, kiddie, I like you," he said, slapping the lad a violent blow between the shoulders.
"Glad of it," laughed Tad. "But you have a queer way of showing your affection."
"Say, can you ride?"
"Some," admitted Tad.
"As well as you can fight and throw a rope?"
"I was not aware that I did either one very well."