"I'm sorry; I wanted to help. However, it looks as if your horse had run away. Have you far to go?"
"The ranch is three miles off."
"How far's the hotel?"
"If you go by the trail, about eight miles. Perhaps four miles, if you cross the range."
Jimmy studied the thick timber and the steep rocky slopes. Pushing through tangled underbrush has drawbacks, particularly where devil's-club thorns are numerous. Besides, he had got a nasty knock and his leg began to hurt. Then he noted a cotton flour bag with straps attached lying in the trail.
"I think I won't cross the range. I suppose that bag is yours?"
"It is mine. They put our groceries off the train. I reckon the bag weighs about forty pounds. I carried the thing on the front of the saddle; but when you——"
Jimmy nodded. "When I butted in you were forced to let it go! Well, since I frightened your horse, I ought to carry your bag. If I take it to the ranch, do you think your folks would give me supper?"
"It's possible. Can you carry the bag?"
"I'll try," said Jimmy. "Have you some grounds to doubt?"