The boys unlocked the handcuffs and laid them aside.
"I believe you'll do the right thing," he said. "Go and get the boy.
If you need any help let me know."
Bradley arose and stretched out his arms luxuriously.
"That's the first time I ever stood in the accused row," he said, "and it will be the last! But, see here, boy, I can't get the kid in a minute! I'll go to the mother and tell her what I'm doing, if I live to get there!"
"You think your ex-friends may seek to terminate your lease of life?"
"They surely will—now. And, here's a pointer for you, look out for yourself."
"I think I can fix you out so they will receive you with open arms," Ned grinned. "Here. I'll put these cuffs on again, with one arm locked carelessly. You can draw the bar out when you pull right hard. Now, eat what you need and take a run up the slope. We'll follow you with a serenade of bullets. When you join the outlaws down in the canyon you'll be a hero."
"That's a fine notion!" said Bradley, actually smiling.
"And don't come back here with the boy. Send him home to the old lady. Then, if you want to help me in the work I'm on—"
"I don't, and I won't!"