The key grated, the door opened, and the astonished boy showed himself.
“Say,” said he, “how did ye happen t’ lock yerself in the room an’ leave yer key on the outside?”
“Never mind thet,” snorted Nomad. “I didn’t happen ter, an’ thet’s all ye need ter know.”
He put on his hat, pushed the boy out, relocked the door, and handed him the key.
“Take that down ter ther man behind ther counter,” said he; “I ain’t got time ter stop.”
Then, with spurs jingling at his heels, he raced down the stairs three steps at a time, and dashed out of the hotel.
At the corral he found his horse ready and waiting.
“Thought ye wanted the animile in a hurry?” remarked Nickerson. “He’s been standin’ thar fer the better part o’ two hours.”
“I was delayed gittin’ hyar,” answered Nomad, leaping into the saddle. “See how quick ye kin tell me ther way ter ther Three-ply Mine, Nickerson.”