The storekeeper went out on the porch and caught a glimpse of Fred over at the barn lot. He gave a halloo, which attracted Fred's attention, and then he beckoned to him. Fred at once started for the store, but the newcomer, who had followed the storekeeper out on the piazza, saw him and said:
"Thank you, boss; I know him. I used to work for him up in Colorado, and he is one of the best men that ever breathed."
When Fred was within one hundred yards of the store, he recognized the cowboy, and called to him:
"Hello, Tom!" and the newcomer returned his greeting.
When Fred reached the store, the two shook hands heartily.
"Tom, what in the world brought you way down here?" Fred inquired.
"Mr. Fearnot. I came down here to take my old place with you on the ranch, if you need me."
"All right, Tom, you can have it. You are just the kind of a man that I do need."
Just then Terry came up and another handshaking took place between the cowboy and him.
Terry and Tom seemed to be highly pleased at meeting each other.