"That boy is more of a man now than Peabody will ever be," said Miles, in a low voice to Ferguson.
"That he is," said the Scotchman, who was a firm friend of our young hero. "There is the making of a noble man in him."
"I believe you."
"I have no objection to your going, Tom," said Fletcher; "but it is better that you should have company. Who will go with the boy?"
"I," said several, among them John Miles and Henry Scott.
"You may go, Scott," said the leader. "I have work for Miles at camp. The sooner you get started the better."
"All right, captain. Come along, Tom."
The two were in the saddle before two minutes had passed, and, guided by the trail, struck out upon the prairie.
Scott was a tall, broad-shouldered young farmer, not over twenty-five, strong and athletic, and reported, the best runner, wrestler, and vaulter in the party. Tom was very well pleased to have his company.