[CHAPTER XIV]
THE END OF THE TRAIL
It was not necessary for any one to arouse Roy Osborne the next morning. Just as the distant peaks of the Blue Mountains were growing pink, the boy sprang out of bed. It was yet dark without and the stars were shining. Roy was surprised to find Mr. Cook already arisen and the Jap busy in the kitchen. As day began to break, they had coffee and bacon. Then Mr. Cook wrote a note which he left in charge of the house boy and with a small parcel of food, he and Roy proceeded to the Company office and the corral.
“You mustn’t do that while we are in the air,” said Roy laughing, as Mr. Cook lit his usual after breakfast cigar.
The manager looked at him in some surprise.
“Can’t smoke?” he replied.
“Better not,” answered Roy. “Rather risky. We’re right beside the gasoline, you know. There are certain chances we have to take, and this isn’t one of them.”
Mr. Cook grunted.