The scout laughed.
“Don’t get inquisitive, Nick. I’ve got a big surprise in store for all of you, but I must spring it in my own way, and at my own time.”
“What kind of er s’prise?”
“The kind that will make you sit up, open your eyes, and gasp. I want several in the party.”
“Me an’ Pierce?” quizzed Nomad.
“More than that. Hattie must be along, and Nate, and Perry; also Sim, and you, Nick, and Cayuse.”
“Jumpin’ catermounts! Why, ye’re cleanin’ out ther hull ranch house. Ef Wild Bill an’ the baron’ ’u’d on’y happen erlong, I reckon ye’d take them, too, hey?”
The scout laughed.
“Benner will also be with us,” said he, “and Hank Phelps.”
The name of Benner was a little surprising, but the mention of Hank Phelps quite took the breath of the others.