“Are you hurt?” inquired his master.
“Only my pride. To think a measly cowlifter could knock the horse from under me and me not even able to see him to hit him!”
Sharing the humiliation which the Midnight Raider was bringing upon the outfits, of the Double Cross and the Star and Moon ranches, the boys strained their eyes to penetrate the darkness enveloping the plains.
“Oh, you needn’t try to locate him. He’s miles away by this time,” sneered Ki Yi. “He don’t sit round sucking his thumbs when it’s time for action. Somebody give me a pony, will you?”
But none of the cowpunchers were willing to surrender their mounts to their unhorsed companion.
Suddenly, Bowser noted the absence of his man.
“Where’s Deadshot?” he queried, anxiously.
“Chasing the raider,” returned Ki Yi.
“Did you see him?” demanded Dude, breathlessly.
“Sure. He came right up and said ‘Pardon, me gentlemen, I believe you are looking for me. I’m going to ride to the right,’” mocked his outfit mate.