“You know, Rip,” Westy said impulsively, “I’d risk my neck again if I thought I could help Lola and her grandmother. They’ve certainly been the best!”
“I kinda think so,” Rip answered, and added: “You like Lola pretty well, don’t you?”
Westy reddened and laughed.
“Go on, Rip! Try something else!”
They heard voices and presently the door opened, admitting Educational Films. Billy put his stuff down and Mr. Wilde sank wearily into a chair.
“Well, I guess that’s all for this Range. The only thing we missed taking was the fleas. I’m satisfied to pull out of here now.”
“Yet,” Billy said, “it’s been nice knowing those fine people!”
“Indeed it has,” Mr. Wilde agreed, “and that reminds me——”
“Oh, yes,” Billy interrupted, “the guide and that party of roughnecks. Go on, tell them!”
“We met some people this morning just as we stepped out in the trail. An old man—pioneer type, called himself Old Scout, and a bunch of newly rich—you know the kind. He’s a guide and was taking them up to the haunted lake to camp over to-night and are coming back to-morrow.