“That’s so,” Monty allowed with a chuckle. “I meant I didn’t mean to damage you, I guess. Look here, we’d better be getting back. It’s pretty nearly dark. Think you can make it?”
“Oh, yes, thanks. I’m all right.” With Monty’s help he got to his feet. But he swayed and fell against the arm that his recent adversary had put out. “I’m sort of dizzy,” he murmured apologetically.
“Take your time,” said Monty, feeling of his aching ear. “Say, where’d you learn to fight like that, hombre?”
“I took boxing lessons for awhile. Did I get you much?”
“Did you! I’ve got an ear on me that feels as big as a football. Seems about the same shape, too!”
“You asked for it,” rejoined the other calmly. “You ought to keep your guard up. I’ll show you what I mean some time, if you like.”
“You’ve shown me quite enough, thanks,” answered Monty decisively. “I know when I’m satisfied. All right now? Say, what about those boats? And I lost a perfectly good hat!”
“I reckon the boats will run aground somewhere,” replied the other boy quite unconcerned. “If you want to look for your hat, though——”
“No, let it go. Do you know how to get out of here?” Monty surveyed the underbrush with misgiving.