ning, to look over the lay of the land, and if he
sees anything suspicious the chances are that he'll choose another
route to ship the Chinks over the border by. But I don't think they'll
go far from Roaring River. They got away with it so easy last time,
that they'll probably try it again. Well--" Hawkins tightened his lips
grimly--"they won't work it twice."

"Any more instructions?" Dick asked.

"No--I'll be over to the Shooting Star sometime this afternoon. May
bring a friend with me--Larry O'Connor--one sweet shot with a revolver.
That is if I think we need him."

"Well, we've got five men all told," Dick declared. "And all of us are
fairly used to handling guns. Target practice at tin cans keeps your
eye in, and we do lots of that."

"Good idea, if you can afford the money for ammunition. Never know
when you'll need to rely on a well-placed shot."

"Are you just going to ride over to the ranch openly?" Bud asked.
"Won't someone see you?"

"Even if they do, they won't suspect anything. But to make sure I'll
wait until after dark. Guess that would be best. No attempt will be
made until well on into the night, and we'll have plenty of time to get
set for them."

"Then we'll see you to-night?" inquired Dick as he arose.

"Sure thing! Oh, by the way--keep an eye on that Mex cook of yours,
will you? I want him where I can grab him quick if I need him."

"We will. Good-bye until to-night, Mr. Hawkins."

"So-long, boys."

Bud and Dick rode back to the Shooting Star. As soon as possible they
told the others of their talk with Hawkins, and of his being a secret
service official. Billee Dobb said he "opined as much long ago."

The day dragged on. The boys were all slightly nervous, though they
wouldn't admit it. Several times one would catch the other fingering
his gun unconsciously. But evening finally came, and while they were
eating supper Joe Hawkins arrived. He was alone.

"Thought you were going to bring someone with you?" Bud said when the
greetings were over.

"Decided it wasn't necessary. We've got plenty here. Now, boys, are
you all set?"

"All set!" the Kid said loudly. "Bring 'em on!"

"They'll come without us bringing them," Hawkins declared a trifle
grimly. "Turn that lamp low, Dick, and let's get out of here."

"What about the Mex?" inquired the Kid.

"Bring him along," the agent declared. "Want him where I can keep an
eye on him."

In spite of his wordless prot