“Sim’s in somethin’ of er hurry,” muttered Nomad. “What d’ye reckon he’s got on his mind?”

“We’ll know in a few moments,” answered the scout grimly.

As Sim Pierce’s horse came nose to nose with Bear Paw and Hide-rack, Sim drew to a halt.

“This here’s luck an’ no mistake!” exclaimed Sim.

“What’s the matter, Pierce?”

“I was pikin’ fer Hackamore ter find ye, Buffler Bill. Findin’ ye on the trail this-a-way saves considerable time.”

“What have you to tell me?”

“A hull lot. I don’t know principally whar ter begin.”

“How about Jake?”

“He’s in bad shape, but he ain’t cashed in. They’re took him on ter the ranch.”