"Do you propose to go ahead of them?" asked Pond.
"No; it will be more easy and safe to fellow their trail. They will not have over fifty animals all told, and there will be lots of feed left for us even if we keep close by. And we can get as much game as we need any time, for we can use but little. One pack horse will carry all our stuff, and still be able to travel at speed, if need be."
"You understand it better than I," said Pond. "Arrange things to suit yourself, and I will conform to your plans."
"All right. You had better turn in early, so as to get a good rest. For after we are out, long rides and night-watches will tell on you, for you are not used to them."
"I will show you to a chamber, your valise is already in it," said Miss Neidic.
Mr. Pond followed her, and the Texan was left alone to his thoughts, which he carelessly expressed aloud.
"So far all works well," he said. "Mr. Willie Pond is as soft as mush; but I've read him through and through. He wouldn't go with me if he didn't think he'd have a chance to serve Wild Bill, for, though he shuns Bill, he thinks more of Bill than he would have me think, I'll bet Addie has found that out."
"Found out what?" said the lady herself, who had returned so noiselessly that Jack had not heard her.
"That Mr. Pond, as he calls himself, is a friend of Wild Bill's."
"All of that, and maybe something more, as you may find out before you are through your trip."