"I think we are ready, Mr. Thomas," announced Tad, their task having been completed.
The boys shouldered their guns proudly.
"Oh, yes; there is something else that goes with it," advised Lige, after glancing critically over the boys and their outfits. "I had almost forgotten it. Fine general I'd make in war time!"
The guide ran to the cook tent which Jose was packing, returning in a moment with another of those mysterious packages.
By now the Pony Riders were worked up to a high pitch of excitement and anticipation.
"What have you got?" asked Chunky, with his usual curiosity.
"I'll show you if you'll wait a minute," whereupon the guide opened the package, holding the contents toward them.
"What is it!" marveled Chunky, eyeing the things gingerly.
"I know! Cartridge belts!" shouted Ned Rector.
And cartridge belts they were—regulation canvas belts, each with a shining brass buckle, bearing a spread eagle on its face, the belts each having compartments for forty-five rounds of ammunition.