"So I will, Aluino,—so I will! Only get the animals into the stables right smart."
"Like a shot, Señor," said the changed man with alacrity, and taking both bridles with no more pride than a hostler.
"Half a minute, uncle," interposed the hunter, taking him by one of the split cars playfully, and yet with significance. "I want you to keep in mind, Potato of Sweetness," he continued, "that your brother trusts the intire consarn to you,—cattle, harness, bags, and inn'ards,—the whole consarn, you savey?"
"Yo sabe," was the reply, tranquilly made, but the half-breed made a wry face which did not beautify its everyday expression.
"Now, that's talking. You know me right down to my boots. So, git you gone, but don't go to sleep, for I have something to talk about."
"In ten minutes I shall be at your señorship's orders."
"Good boy, Uncle Al!"
The hotelkeeper went away grumbling louder and louder, with the horses for the corral (enclosure).
"Stick your pistols in your belt, and follow me. You air going to see no end of a curious circus," resumed Oliver to his companion. "Keep cool, and a little swagger does no harm. These here tough men and rough men must think you no tenderfoot; I rayther guess they'll figger me up first pop, as raised right hyar on the plantation."
"I hope you'll be content with me," returned Mr. Gladsden; "I have made up my mind. I am not going to back out, but sail right over the bar, whatever the quantity of broken glass."