“It was curious,” said Larry.
“But, on the other hand, you have proved a better friend to the police. If it hadn’t been for your clever work, Somers”—his stern eyes fell full on the Rambler’s face—“Jed Warren might not have been found for many days. Therefore we rather think the balance is entirely in your favor. So I take the opportunity, as an officer of the Northwest Mounted, to thank you and your fellow members of the club.”
“And I am sure we highly appreciate your kind words,” said Bob, while the rest of the crowd voiced their approval in the most hearty and spontaneous fashion.
“I know we shall never forget the great time we’ve had in Canada,” cried Tom, his face glowing with pride. He looked toward Billy Ashe, and a twinkle came into his eye. “And the police are certainly a mighty fine lot—even if they did place us under ‘arrest.’”
“What are your plans now?” inquired Sergeant Erskine, joining in the laugh which ran around the room.
“We shall probably camp out a bit,” answered Bob, “and perhaps try to get a sight of some big game.”
“At any rate. I hope you will mess with us to-night?”
The boys, heartily thanking the sergeant, accepted his kind invitation; then, not wishing to take up more of his time, withdrew.
It was mighty pleasant for the boys to see Jed Warren, resplendent in his scarlet coat, and to reflect how good fortune had aided them in their fight to bring out the truth.
Everything around the barracks was so agreeable that they not only stopped to mess that evening but remained for several days.