“Yes, but, Daddy, wouldn’t it be nice to give something to the boys if they did catch the thieves?� Belle asked. “And then, too, I think they’d look just a little bit harder, if they knew they’d get a hundred dollars when they found the horses. Now, wouldn’t they?�
“Mebby—mebby,â€� Mr. Manley agreed. “Won’t do any harm to try. Well, are the boys showin’ you around the place?â€� he asked, turning to Nell.
“Yes, and it’s perfectly thrilling!� Ethel broke in. “I’d just adore it if I could live here always.�
“Have you shown them the kittens we brought back?� Mr. Manley inquired of Teddy, winking one eye.
“Not yet, Dad,� his son returned. “We were just going over there when we saw this notice of yours.�
“What kind of kittens?� Ethel wanted to know.
“You’ll see!â€� Belle Ada exclaimed. “And I’ll bet you never saw any like them in your life before! Come on—they’re near the bunk-house.â€�
The two city girls bent eagerly over the large, wire cage that stood in the shelter of the bunk-house wall. When they saw the soft, furry little creatures romping about inside, Nell gave a cry of delight and was about to reach down and pet them when Roy caught her hand.
“I wouldn’t do that,� the boy warned. “Their teeth and claws are growing pretty fast. You might get nipped.�
“What kind of kittens are they?� Ethel wanted to know.