"Why, it's the Swallow, and Slipper!" he said, "Boys, this is good of you."
The Kid stood without a word, looking at Shock's white, dazed face. He could not trust his voice to speak.
"You'd best get onto Slipper," said Ike. "Rides easy and is mighty sure. The Swallow's all right, of course," he continued apologetically to The Kid, "but a leetle light."
"But I don't want both," said Shock.
"Oh! I guess I'll go along," declared Ike. "I know the trails and short-cuts a little better. Can save time, perhaps. That is," he added, "if you don't mind my goin' along."
"That's awfully good of you, Ike," said Shock. "I shall be glad to have you."
"Good-bye, Kiddie," said Shock affectionately, holding out his hand to The Kid. "I cannot say, much just now, but I appreciate this kindness, my boy."
"Don't, don't!" said The Kid, in a husky whisper. "I wish to Heaven I could help you. Good-bye."
"Good-bye," said Shock, taking up the reins. "Oh! I say, Kid, don't tell anyone to-night. Keep the thing going; it would be a pity to spoil their fun, you know. You can do this for me, can't you?"
"I can try," said The Kid, setting his teeth together.