"But one thing against us—or against dad, which is the same thing," said Bud, "is that his papers proving possession are stolen. And these sheep men seem to know that."
"Yes," agreed Dick, "they seem to know it all right."
They returned to the fort on the bank of Spur Creek just before dark, and, to their delight, found the telephone in working order. For the ranch had called the cabin, Mr. Merkel wanting to know how matters were at Spur Creek.
He complained of having tried several times to get into communication with the fort, and he had guessed there was a broken wire but he had not suspected it was cut. Then, when he tried again, he found communication restored. This, of course, was after Dick and Bud had found and mended the break.
Nort had not yet reached the ranch at the time his father finally found the telephone working. But the need of help was told of over the restored wire, and several cowboys were at once dispatched, not waiting for the arrival of Nort.
"I'll send Nort back to you as soon as he gets here," promised Mr. Merkel.
These matters having been disposed of, Bud and Dick had a chance to ask what had transpired at the fort since they left.
"Jest nothin'—that's all," answered Snake.
"But I think there's goin' t' be somethin' doin' right shortly," observed Yellin' Kid.
"What makes you think so?" asked Bud.