This was something at least to detract their attention from their troubles.
"Hey, you haven't got back, have you?" taunted Ned, noting the flecks of foam on his pony with disapproving eyes.
"Me back," grinned the Indian.
"I see you are," replied the Professor dryly. "Where's the rope?"
"Yes; we don't care so much about seeing you, but we want that rope," added Ned emphatically.
"No got um."
"Do you mean to say you have been gone nearly twenty-four hours and have not found a rope?" demanded Professor Zepplin.
"No rope," persisted the guide sullenly.
"Why not?" demanded Ned, steadying himself, for he was more wrought up than he wished to admit, even to himself.
The Shawnee shrugged his shoulders.