“Hayden.”
A groan escaped the brave scout’s lips. The keen eyes behind the wolf mask expressed both curiosity and sympathy.
There ensued a long pause. It was broken by Buffalo Bill. Speaking abruptly, he said:
“I am putting you up to be a friend. I need a friend’s help. I not only desire to be set at liberty, but I want your assistance. Will you give it?”
The leader of the Yelping Crew laughed softly. “You are not very modest in your demands,” he replied coolly.
“I am what I am,” rejoined the king of scouts sharply. Then he went on quickly and earnestly: “Colonel Hayden is a prisoner in the hands of Black-face Ned. Thunder Cloud is down in the cañon bound hand and foot. I surprised him while he was trying to execute a murderous order given him by Black-face Ned. The Indian must be removed from the cañon or the outlaw will find and release him.”
The white chief of the Comanches arose to his feet. “Why did you not tell me this before?” he asked.
“Could I tell you before I was sure you were in sympathy with my cause?” was the cold reply.
“No, certainly not. You were wise to hold back your story. You want my help in getting Colonel Hayden out of the clutches of Black-face Ned and his Indian and white marauders and murderers. Well, you shall have it. I never meant to keep you a prisoner. Your capture was a joke.”
“A joke?”—gazing at the masked leader in astonishment. “Why——”