the "boss" on
any other theory. He was prompt and energetic, and was more likely to be
ahead than behind the time he set for his own appearance at a particular
place.

Without giving expression to his fears, he joined the group at the wagon
and partook of his breakfast, washing down his food with a cup of
delicious steaming coffee. He avoided Avon for a time, because he
plainly saw the young man was disturbed; but, when the meal was
finished, the remarks became general over the absence of Captain
Shirril.

"I've just come from the top of the swell," said Madstone, who had been
there since Ballyhoo, "and can't see anything of him. I 'spose he has
overslept himself, because of the flurry last night."

"I wish I could believe it is nothing worse," said Avon, walking
thoughtfully out to where his mustang stood saddled and bridled.

"Why, what else could it be, Baby?" asked Ballyhoo, repressing his own
uneasiness.

"That's just what I want to find out; I tell you, I don't think we
ought to stay here, when it's pretty sure something is wrong at the
house; if the Comanches are going to keep this up, it will never do to
leave the women alone; I shall have to go back and stay with them."

"I can't believe it's that, but we shall soon know."

He sprang into the saddle, and the two rode to the elevation which has
already been referred to several times.

"I will wait here," said the elder, checking his animals, "while you
ride on to the cabin."

Avon looked inquiringly at him.

"Don't you think it best you should go with me?"

"No; I will keep you under my eye all the way; if you see anything out
of gear, you need only to signal, and I will fetch two or three of the
boys with me."

It struck the youth as strange that Ballyhoo should stop after starting
for the dwelling. The young man had made up his mind there was something
wrong there, and it seemed to him like a waste of time for his friend
to hold back.

However, he said nothing further in the way of protest, but, speaking
briskly to Thunderbolt, sent him off at headlong speed toward the
cabin.

"I am afraid this knocks all my plans to smithereens," he said to
himself; "for if there is the least danger of the Comanches putting in
their appearance again, it would never do for me to leave home. It is
bad enough for uncle to go, but there is no help in his case, while
there is in mine."

As he drew near the dwelling his feelings intensified, and all other
thou