“I felt an irresistible desire to join them, but they never stopped. However, taking it for granted that they wanted me or they wouldn’t have spoken, I ran after the caravan and tried to keep up with them. The pack grew heavier every moment, and at last I decided to give it up. Just then one of the leading horses of the four stumbled down upon his knees.
“This caused a halt while the driver got down and examined the horse. I had the opportunity that I needed, so I took a deep breath and shouted, at the same time running as fast as my weary legs would carry me.
“‘How are you comin’?’ asked the driver.
“‘Coming!’ I cried, so tired I could have wept. ‘Why, I’ve been coming ever since the man asked me.’
“‘Some run, eh?’ asked the old man, smiling.
“‘Didn’t they mean it?’ I asked, in a tremble lest I be left again.
“‘Guess so. Don’t believe they gave you another thought. But, now that you’re here, you kin sit with me,’ said the man gruffly, as I thought, while he rubbed the skinned knee with whale-oil.
“I climbed up and sat in the seat beside the driver. He gathered the reins together and started the horses again before he spoke another word.
“‘Kid, I watched you runnin’ after this crew, and I jus’ said to mysel’, “Old Hal, keep an eye on that kid and see what stuff he’s made of.” I reckon you’ll win out, even if this brazen outfit loses. I’m goin’ to take a likin’ to ye, kid, d’ye hear that!’ grinned the old man, as he chirked to the horses.
“I sat still and pondered what he said.