“Who’s next?” asked Crockett.
“I’d like to say I am,” spoke Dolph, humorously. “But I can’t, and stick close to the truth. Jed Curley’s the best shot here after yourself, colonel.”
Jed Curley was a young adventurer of about twenty-five with whom both Walter and Ned had become very friendly. He was a powerfully built fellow, and his clear eyes and steady nerves gave him the working basis of a sharp-shooter.
“All right,” said Crockett. “Just where are you located, Jed?”
“Right here, colonel,” came the voice of the young man.
“All right. Lie low, but listen to what I’m going to say to you.”
“I’m listening.”
“I’m going to fire at that pinto Injun pony,” said Crockett. “Not to kill it, though; I’ll be careful of that. You see, that pony jumping up a while ago gave me a notion.”
“I see it, colonel,” came the voice of Jed. “You scare up the mustang, that leaves the Injun uncovered, and before he can get shelter, I draw a bead on him.”
“Exactly,” answered Crockett. “Ready, Jed?”