“Just as fast as horse-flesh can carry me.”
“But how did you come to get lost?”
Guy’s story was a short one, and was soon told. Some of the miners seemed to believe it, while others looked a little incredulous. But Guy did not care for that. He had the best of evidence that every word he uttered was the truth.
While he was telling his story a horseman drew up before the shanty, and dismounting, proceeded to give Guy’s steed a good looking over, closely examining a brand on the animal’s flank, and referring occasionally to a note-book which he drew from his pocket. The miners watched every move he made, now and then exchanging winks with one another, and looking toward Guy in a way the latter could not understand.
CHAPTER XXIII.
GUY BECOMES A TEAMSTER.
“WHICH of you owns this horse,” asked the man at length, thrusting his head in at the door.
The question was addressed to the party in general but the man fastened his eyes upon Guy as if expecting an answer from him.
“He is in my possession,” said the boy, “but he belongs to Zeke.”