ing Tish's example, we went on our hands and knees, and I was
thankful then for no skirts. It is wonderful the freedom a man has. I
was never one to approve of Doctor Mary Walker, but I'm not so sure she
isn't a wise woman and the rest of us fools. I haven't put on a skirt
braid since that time without begrudging it.

Well, as I have stated, we advanced, and at last we were in full sight
of the camp. I must say I'd have thought they'd have a tent. We expected
something better, I suppose, because of the articles in the papers about
movie people having their own limousines, and all that. But there they
were, open to the wrath of the heavens, and deserving it, if I do say
so.

The girl was still sitting, as Tish had described her. Only now she was
crying. My heart was downright sore for her. It is no comfort, having
made a wrong choice, to know that it is one's own fault.

Having now reached the zone of firelight Tish gave the signal, and we
rose and pointed our revolvers at them. Then Tish stepped forward and
said:--

"Hands up!"

I shall never forget the expression on the man's face.

He shouted something, but he threw up his hands also, with his eyes
popping out of his head. The others scrambled to their feet, but he
warned them.

"Careful, boys!" he yelled. "They're got the drop on us."

Just then his eyes fell on Aggie, and he screeched:--

"Two women and a Turk, by ----." The blank is mine.

"Lizzie," said Tish sternly, as all of them, including the girl, held
their hands up, "just give me your weapon and go over them."

"Go over them?" I said, not understanding.

"Search them," said Tish. "Take everything out of their pockets. And
don't move," she ordered them sternly. "One motion, and I fire. Go on,
Lizzie."

Now I have never searched a man's pockets, and the idea was repugnant to
me. I am a woman of delicate instincts. But Tish's face was stern. I did
as commanded, therefore, the total result being:--

Four revolvers.

Two large knives.

One small knife.

One bunch of keys.

One plug of chewing-tobacco.

Four cartridge belts.

Two old pipes.

Mr. Ostermaier's cigar-case, which I recognized at once, being the one
we had presented to him.

Mrs. Ostermaier's wedding-ring and gold bracelet, which her sister gave
her on her last birthday.

A diamond solitaire, unknown, as Mrs. Ostermaier never owned one,
preferring instead earrings as more showy.

And a considerable sum of money, which