er fields
of adventure.

The same thought was in the minds of all except Chunky, who held his
head erect, his chest swelled out. He was full of their great
achievements and was telling what he would do if any of the bandits
came to visit their camp.

"I think we will put you on guard to-night, seeing that you are such a
brave young man," said the professor with a twinkle.

"On guard?"

"Yes."

"Yes, that's the idea. Let him take the watch," approved Rector.

"You forget that I'm a wounded man. You forget I've been shot twice
to-day. Huh! Some of you children take the trick. I've got to take
care of my health."

"I guess if we expect to get any sleep we had better let some one else
do it," agreed Tad. "Chunky will have us out on false alarms all
night long."

They were agreed upon this, and by common consent Butler was given the
watch for the night. The boys slept with their rifles beside them
that night.

The night passed without incident, Tad Butler keeping a vigilant watch
all during the dark hours of the night. He had plenty of time to think
matters over. He realized that Dunk Tucker, the prisoner, had
overheard all that had been said during their talk with Withem out on
the plain. Tad knew that if Dunk ever got into communication with his
fellows it would go hard with the Pony Rider Boys.

Soon after daybreak, Tad awakened his fellows. He already had a brisk
fire going, but before lighting it, the lad had walked down to the
edge of the canyon for a survey of the plain. He saw a solitary
horseman far out over the rolling plain. After some study he made up
his mind that the man was going away instead of coming toward them.

Breakfast finished the party packed their belongings and started out
for their long ride to join the Rangers sometime late in the day.

About noon they made camp for dinner and a rest, not taking up their
journey until about four o'clock in the afternoon. Darkness overtook
them, finding them still without sight or sound of the Spring where
Withem said they would find the Rangers' camp. A consultation was held
and it was decided to continue on until they picked up the party.

About half an hour after night had fallen, they were riding along when
suddenly they were stopped by a stern command.

"Halt! Hands up! Every man of you is covered!"

"Oh, wow!" gasped Chunky. "They've got us again."

"Who are you?" demanded the voice.

"Who are you?" returned Tad boldly.