Three men from the veranda ran to him.
“Are you hurt?” questioned one.
The boy eyed his questioner out of the corner of one eye, and getting up with an effort began brushing the dust from his clothing.
“Certainly not. Falling off a horse is fine exercise before meals. It gives one an appetite. You should try it yourself,” returned Stacy.
“I reckon that boy gave you what you deserve,” said one of the man’s companions laughingly.
The Overland Riders, in the meantime, trotted their horses around behind the hotel where they gave way to their merriment, and there they were joined by Stacy a few minutes later. His face was red, his nose was skinned, and he was complaining bitterly because his companions had deserted him.
“Stacy Brown, you’re a sight. Go into the hotel this moment and wash your face,” directed Emma in her severest tone.
“I’m going to, but not because you say so. I’m going to wash because I need it.”
“That’s a dear good boy,” approved Emma. “For that I shall buy you an ice cream cone.”
“Thanks,” grinned Stacy, hitching his horse.