"Ford?" repeated Bob, his memory instantly recalling what the strange man with the scar had said about Sam and John Ford. "Where does he live?"
"Ten miles due west."
"Now, Higgins, you know better than to send this boy out there. Remember what Hal said about playing tricks on him."
Evidently this reminder had an effect upon the schemer, for he answered apologetically:
"Well, he asked about a place and I told him. You know as well as I do that John Ford always wants help."
"Sure we know it. But it ain't no fit place for such a boy."
Something suggested to Bob, however, that he should go to this ranchman, and accordingly he said:
"You needn't think I am so tender. Just because other men can't get along with Mr. Ford is no sign I can't. What is the nearest way to get there?"
"So long as you've got to walk, go straight down the track till you see a building with a red roof, on the left hand side," directed Higgins.
And before the others could protest, Bob uttered a hasty "thank you," and set off along the track at a dog trot.