"Not a scratch on him."
"That's good. You'd better ride him home, so dad won't be worrying. I'll walk."
"You can ride if you want to," said Will, generously.
"No, you're lighter weight, and it's a hot day. Besides, Pete must be pretty well tired out. Look out he doesn't run away with you again."
"I will. Wish I had a bridle instead of this halter."
"Hold on. I've got one!" exclaimed Mr. Harrison. "It's one that belonged to my mule, but I lost the mule and you might as well take the bridle."
The old miner opened another part of his pack, and took out a strong bridle, that showed some signs of wear. It was quickly slipped on Pete, and then Will, mounting the animal's back, rode off.
"If you'll stop at our house on your way past," he called back to Mr. Harrison, "you can get your bridle."
"All right, I will. Might as well go that way as any other," the man added to Jed, as they started along the highway.
"Haven't you any particular place to go?"