The half-breed looked surprised.
“Know where we can get any?” Dick persisted.
“Not many ponies ’round here,” explained the trapper. “Why you no like those pony there?”
“Tired out,” answered Dick. “And we want to go fast.”
He relaxed in the saddle, and just then an idea came to him.
“How far is it from here to Fort Wonderly?”
“’Bout twelve mile.”
Dick thanked the half-breed, motioned to Toma, and they set off again.
“Well,” announced Dick, “we’re going over to the fort.”
“Why you go there?” Toma stared blankly. “Fort Wonderly off trail. Creel him no go that way. I no understand why you do that.”