While they were eating, the Indian asked the Doctor about Thad’s condition.
“I cannot say yet, as to his complete recovery,” returned Saint Jimmy, “but I feel reasonably sure that he will pull through all right. I am quite certain that he will regain consciousness for a time at least. But the Mexican has no chance. He will live for several days, perhaps, but the end is certain.”
“Good!” said Natachee. “You and Mrs. Burton will stay here until Edwards and I return, will you?”
“Indeed we will,” returned Mother Burton quickly.
“Good!” said the Indian again. “We should be back the morning of the fourth day.”
He looked at Doctor Burton inquiringly.
“We will save time getting started if we take your horses. The Pardners’ horses are out on the range somewhere—and to go to Wheeler’s for help would mean the sheriff.”
“They are yours. Take them, of course,” said Doctor Burton and his mother in a breath.
“We will take a little food for to-night and to-morrow,” continued the Indian, “and a canteen of water. With a little grain for the horses and the Pardners’ guns, that will be all, except”—he smiled grimly—“my bow and arrows.”