“He’s a deep one,” remarked Gentleman Jim. “The mine is evidently a trap, and he’s luring you into it. It is also perfectly evident that he knows you will not fulfil his terms for the mine itself, but simply because he gives you a dare.”
“Buffler Bill an’ pards never takes a dare,” said Nomad.
“We’ll meet Lawless half-way in this one,” said the scout resolutely. “By doing so, we can not only get the mine, but likewise capture Lawless.”
“Sure!” cried Wild Bill. “Are your pards in with you on the deal, Cody?”
“On one consideration only,” was the answer.
“What’s that?”
“Why, that if we stay out the three consecutive days and nights successfully, we are all to be joint owners of the mine.”
Silence followed the words.
“If all of you share the risk,” smiled the scout, “you ought also to share the profits.”
That brought an agreement.