"Yes! Yes! Blasts are dangerous!" said the half breed quickly, and it seemed as if he spoke in answer to a signal given by one of the scientists. "We are going to set off another."
"It is just some research work we are undertaking," said Professor Blair, as he saw Nort and Dick looking around. "We have absented ourselves from our college to do some investigating, and it is necessary to blast, in some cases, to get at the lower deposits."
Both Dick and Nort said to each other, afterwards, that they did not believe these statements.
"Perhaps you boys had better come down to the tents," suggested Professor Wright. "As Del Pinzo says, blasts are dangerous, and the men are going to set off another. Come to the tents," and with a wave of his hand he indicated the camp site, a level place amid the little and big hills all about.
"Thanks," murmured Nort. "But are you going to be able to direct us how to find Diamond X ranch?"
"Doubtless some of our men can tell you," said Mr. Wright. "Have you eaten?" he asked.
"We had a little," Dick replied. "But——"
"You can eat more, I have no doubt!" laughed Professor Blair, but his merriment seemed to be forced. "Well, fortunately our larder is well stocked. Come down and have something. How are all your friends?"
"Well, as far as we know, not having seen them since yesterday," answered Dick. "You see we're not regular ranchers or cowboys yet, we're just learning."
"One need not be told that!" sneered Del Pinzo, who had followed our heroes and the two professors down the slope.