"I reckon this is authority enough," declared the man, tapping his rifle significantly.
"We've got some of the same kind, several of them in fact," answered Tad, with a good-natured laugh. "When it comes to that I think you will find our authority fully as convincing as yours."
For the moment matters looked serious. The man's face turned red. He shifted his weapon a little and glared at the young man who had really uttered a challenge.
"Whether or not you are an officer I do not know," went on the Professor. "However, I have a right to know why you make this singular request."
"No request about it. I told you to mosey."
"But why?"
"You're on government property."
"Well, what of it?"
"You've been shooting on government property?"
"I deny it," thundered Professor Zepplin, slapping his thigh with the flat of his hand.