“In that case, Mr. Dean, you could hardly find a better spot than this.”
“We’re a kindly set of chaps, and couldn’t think of keeping a hungry man out here.”
“But I’m not very hungry. I took a pocketful of sandwiches with me from the tavern.”
“Nevertheless, you are coming with us, either peaceably, or by force, whichever you choose.”
“Oh, quite willingly, of course. I should be ungrateful if I gave you any unnecessary trouble, while accepting your hospitality. I may add that I am unarmed, so if you keep your guns in readiness you need fear no reprisal on my part.”
“That’s all right,” responded Jim. “We’re not easily scared, but are prepared to protect ourselves should you try any funny business.”
“Is Peter going to take my horse to the farm?”
“Sure; your horse will be put in its old quarters, and will be well taken care of.”
“Then I should be glad if Peter would oblige me by telling Miss Armstrong that I have arrived safely, and will give her an account of my journey when next I have the pleasure of meeting her.”
