“What is it?”
“We kin split forces an’ enter the hills by two ways. The Steam Man can stay down here on the level ground. When we have driven the greasers out of the hills the Steam Man can clinch the victory.”
Diamond Jake’s words were not without a good impression upon the listeners. But before they could be commented upon an uproar arose from without. All sprang up and rushed to the door of the tent.
CHAPTER VII.
THE COWBOYS’ DUEL.
Among those who had joined the band of prospectors were two cowboys.
They were as genuine specimens of the prairie tough as one could rest eyes upon.
One was named “Copper Jake” and the other bore the euphonious title of “Buster Bill.”
A number of miners had engaged in a game of dice.
The cowboys had finally ventured to take a hand.
Ordinarily the best of friends, it was hardly a moment before they were quarreling.