Then, before either Harkness or Justin could reach her, she pitched forward, overcome by excitement and the thick smoke. Harkness lifted her in his strong arms, clinging to his bridle rein as he did so. The bronchos were snorting and uneasy.
“I’ve got to git her out of here,” said Harkness, with tender solicitude. “Where’s Helen?”
“She must be right here somewhere; over that way, your wife said. I’ll find her.”
Harkness glared at the smoke.
“Yes, find her, and find her quick! That fire will be right on top of this place in another minute.”
He swung Pearl toward the saddle. Justin assisted him to hoist the heavy woman to the back of the horse, and held her there while he mounted. Harkness took the limp form in his arms.
“We ain’t got any time to lose!” he gasped. “Find Helen! For God’s sake, save Helen! It will kill Pearl, and me too, if you don’t. The fire is right here. For God’s sake, save her; I know you’ll do it if anybody can.”
Justin was in the saddle.
“Save your wife!” he cried. “Save your wife! I’ll find Helen! I’ll find her!”
“You’ve got to find her! Don’t stop till you find her! I reckon I’d better help you look for her.”