“I don’t think there is any need of going farther back,” said Brown, pausing and looking dejectedly at Chase, after they had retraced their steps for a short distance up the road; “do you?”
“No, I do not,” answered the boy. “We have travelled fast to-day, and it is a long way back to the place where we camped last night. You had the money then?”
“Yes, and I haven’t seen it since. Some fellow has got it safe enough before this time.”
“I know it,” said Chase.
With one accord the two turned about and resumed their journey. Chase wanted to think, but Brown was anxious to talk.
“What do you say to my proposition, Hank?” said he. “I don’t like to leave you, but if we can’t get work together, ought not each one to look out for himself?”
“Of course he ought.”
“But you won’t leave me in the lurch?” continued Brown. “You won’t go back on me because I have no money?”
“I have just as much intention of deserting you as you have of serving me that way,” replied Chase, earnestly.