“Well,” said the young inventor as he turned the Steam Man about, “I cannot imagine who the young girl is or how she fell into the hands of Cliff’s gang. But it is certain that she is in their power and we must save her.”
“Be jabers that’s roight, Misther Frank,” cried Barney, gallantly, “the O’Sheas from Brian Boru down war always known as men av honor an’ defenders av female virtue.”
The Steam Man started on the return across the plateau.
It was Frank Reade, Jr.’s intention to reach the prairie once more and strike out to the southwest, in the hopes of locating the Ranch V.
The Steam Man ran swiftly to the mouth of the pass which led down to the prairie.
Barney had filled the furnace with fresh coal, and the indicator showed that there was plenty of water in the boiler.
Frank was about to enter the pass when suddenly Pomp sprang up with a wild cry.
The darky sprang to Frank’s side and tried to grab the throttle rein.
Frank was astounded.
“Hold on there, Pomp. What are you trying to do?” he cried.