“I’ll take the bet.”
The clear voice caused all to start and turn. The subject of the conversation was before them.
“Buffalo Bill! Three cheers!” cried a voice; and a ringing salute was given him as he forced his way to the table and asked quietly:
“Who is betting against my life?”
“Put it thar, pard; now I’ll tell yer,” cried Old Negotiate.
After grasping the hand of the scout, he continued:
“These Texans an’ myself were havin’ a leetle chin music, an’ I l’arns from one thet Kent King escaped——”
“Ah! This is Mr. Tabor, I believe; an’ Seven-foot Harry,” and recognizing the different men around the table, Buffalo Bill greeted them warmly and asked:
“Has Kent King really escaped?”
“Yes, as I have just told these gentlemen, he escaped from us near Santa Fe.”