“He and his son started for Palos this morning.”
The horsemen looked at each other and uttered a volley of exclamations, that seemed to astonish Philip greatly.
“Perhaps you wanted to see Mr. Ackerman?” said he.
“I should say we did!” replied the owner of the stolen horse.
“I am sorry. He’ll not be back for two or three weeks, for he took a mule-wagon with him, and is going to bring back a heavy load.”
“You say his son went with him. Did he go in the wagon?”
“O, no; he rode on horseback.”
“What sort of a looking horse was it?”
“A dark chestnut, with white mane and tail and four white feet. It was a new horse he traded for a few days ago. The house is open, just the same as if Mr. Ackerman was there, and we shall be glad to give you——”
“We wouldn’t stay in his house to-night under any circumstances!” was the angry reply. “Bring out our horses as quick as you can, and let us get away; that’s all we ask of you!”