"That's a habit of his," laughed Ned.
"I wonder if they would let us take part in some of the games this afternoon," inquired Tad.
"Why, of course they will. I'll speak to Mr. Jessup about it," answered Tom Phipps.
When the owner of the ranch passed them later on, Tom called him, and after introducing the boys to him, told the rancher what they desired to do.
Mr. Jessup looked the lads over critically.
"It's a pretty rough game, boys," he smiled. "But you look as if you were able to take care of yourselves. Of course you may go in for the fun if you want to. I'll tell the bunch."
"Thank you," said Tad, rising.
Mr. Jessup shouted to attract the attention of the noisy cowboys.
"Hey, fellows, we have a bunch of tenderfeet lads from the East with us to-day. They're taking a trip over the mountains and they want to know if they can join you in the fun this afternoon?"
"Sure!" roared the cowboys. "We'll give the tenderfeet all the fun they want."