Both Roy and Teddy knew the real reason for not saying anything about the rescue. In the first place, Nell Willis would berate herself for having fallen off, and so, consequently, having exposed Roy to danger. In the second place—and this Teddy realized more than Roy—there would be small glory to Roy in having to be dragged from the river. And after all, it was Teddy’s fault, for his cry startled the runaway. For these and other reasons the boys judged it best that none but themselves should know the true story.
Ahead of them now was the hill that over-topped the 8 X 8 ranch. Within ten minutes they would be greeting the girls.
Suddenly Teddy, who was ahead leading Star, held up his hand.
“Got a question to ask?” Roy said laconically. “Well, go ahead. But remember teacher isn’t here to—”
“I heard a yell,” Teddy interrupted shortly. “A funny yell.”
“A funny yell?” Roy noticed the seriousness of his brother’s face and did not carry the joking further. “What do you mean?”
“Well, it sounded like a yell for help. Pipe down a second while I listen.”
The horses were brought to a halt. The boys remained silent, but heard nothing but the murmur of the river in the distance.
“Reckon I was mistaken,” Teddy said finally. “I must be hearing things. What say we get a wiggle on? You feel all right?”
“Sure! Step on it. Don’t worry about me. That chocolate brought me around.”