“What’s the matter, Bob?” exclaimed Joseph as he spied his brother and Deerfoot hastening in his direction.
“Everything’s the matter,” cried Robert. “The Indians are attacking us for all they are worth and we’ll be surrounded unless we get out of here pretty quick.”
“Get the ponies and I’m ready,” said Joseph eagerly.
Deerfoot and Robert hastened to obey and in a very short time returned. Each one rode his own pony and Robert led The Swallow, holding the reins with his left hand. He quickly dismounted and Deerfoot did the same.
“Now,” cried Robert cheerily, “just let us get hold of you, Joe, and you’ll be in your saddle before you know it.”
“Don’t worry about me,” exclaimed Joseph. “I’m almost as good as I ever was.”
“That’s the way to talk,” said Robert heartily. “Are you all ready now?”
“All ready.”
Deerfoot and Robert soon lifted Joseph into the saddle, where he seemed to be more at ease than he had been on the ground. His two friends watched him anxiously.
“Think you can stand it?” inquired Robert.