“We are going to camp on Wildcat Creek, twenty miles from here,” Bradford returned pleasantly.

“Shall we cover the whole distance to-day?”

“Certainly.”

“It’s a long jaunt.”

“Do you consider it so?” in evident surprise.

“Yes; it’s a longer walk than I feel inclined to undertake.”

“Aren’t you used to long journeys afoot?”

“Yes; but I’m not accustomed to making them against my will.”

“Oh”—and the older man smiled. “Perhaps you’d prefer to ride.”