The Pony Rider Boys on the Blue Ridge; or, A Lucky Find in the Carolina Mountains

by Frank Gee Patchin

"Hm-m-m! I see," observed the Professor. "A rope tied to your ankle, eh?"

"Yassir, yassir."

"Stacy, are you tied by the ankle also?" demanded the Professor.

"Yes, I'm hobbled for keeps," answered the fat boy. "I'd like to know who played this measly trick on me. Am I tied to Chops, Professor?"

"It would appear that you are. Remove the rope. Whose rope is that?"

Tad examined the line with which the two had been tied, with a grave face.

"It is your rope, Professor. Surely, you didn't do anything like this?" questioned Tad.

The boys gazed at Professor Zepplin in well-feigned amazement.

"Oh, Professor!" groaned Ned. "Is it possible that you are getting frisky? It's this mountain air. I am beginning to feel like a yearling colt myself."

The Professor looked his disgust.