“Here we are, Beardy,” said one of the rescue party. “Comp’ny gent on his travels.”
The kneeling man scowled at the speaker, and then put his hand behind him as if from instinct, but dropped it as the other said:
“It’s all right, Beardy. Number four’s empty, isn’t it? Because if it aren’t, you’ll have to give up your room.”
The big red-bearded man showed some prominent yellow teeth in a grin, nodded, and pushed a blazing brand under the kettle.
“Sit down, youngster,” said the first speaker. “Maybe you’ll jyne us at supper?”
“I shall be very glad.”
“Right you are, and welcome! ’Aven’t brought anything with you, I suppose?”
“Yes, I have some cake and bacon.”
“Well done, young un. Get it out,” said the red-bearded man, and, recovered somewhat by his warm reception, the young adventurer began to unlash the load upon the sledge, the two men who had come to his aid eagerly joining in, their eyes glistening as they examined the various objects that were set free.
“Going yonder after the yaller stuff?” said the owner of the red beard, as they squatted round the fire.