“What became of Angel?” asked Slim.

“He went home,” said Chuck. “I shore told him where to head in at, didn’t I?”

“If I remember right, yuh did,” agreed Blackwell dryly.

“How long ago did he go home?” asked Slim quickly.

“Fifteen or twenty minutes ago,” replied Chuck. “Mebby it was a little longer, but I don’t think so.”

“C’mon, Hashknife!” snapped Slim. “You, too, Chuck! Never mind the fire—c’mon!”

Slim led them back at a brisk trot. Scotty saw them going away, and followed after.

“What’s the matter?” asked Chuck.

“Don’t ask me now,” replied Slim. “Wait and see.”

CHAPTER XXI—THE FINISH AT THE JML