to his companion's, was able to give him some information. So
they plodded on, enjoying the unconventional life and the scenery on the
way.

They were in no hurry. They stopped to hunt and fish, and when the weather
was unfavorable they stayed at some wayside cabin. When the nights were
fine they camped out under the open canopy of heaven.

Part of their way led through woods and over prairies, but here and there
they came to a village. There was little occasion to spend money, but they
were compelled to use some.

One day, some weeks from the time when they started, Luke turned to Ernest
with a sober face.

"Ernest," he said, "I think you'll have to leave me at the next
poorhouse."

"Why, Luke?"

"Because my money is nearly all gone. I started with fifteen dollars. Now
I have but one."

"But I have plenty left."

"That doesn't help me."

"I want to share it with you, Luke."

"Don't you remember what I said when we set out, lad?"

"What was it?"

"That I would not touch a dollar of your money."

"Then do you mean to leave me alone, Luke?" pleaded Ernest reproachfully.

"You are a boy and I am a man. I'm forty years old, Ernest. Is it right
that I should live on a boy less than half my age?"

Ernest looked at him in perplexity.

"Is there no way of getting more money?" he asked.

"If we were in California now and at the mines, I might make shift to fill
my purse; but there are no mines hereabouts."

"Let us keep on and something may turn up."

When this conversation took place they were approaching Emmonsville, a
thriving town in Nebraska. As they walked through the principal street, it
was clear that something had happened which had created general
excitement. Groups of people were talking earnestly, and their faces wore
a perturbed and anxious look.

"What's the matter?" asked Luke, addressing a well-to-do appearing man.

"Haven't you heard of the bank robbery over at Lee's Falls?"

"No."

"Two men fully armed rode up to the door, and, dismounting, entered the
bank. One stepped up to the window of the paying teller, and covering him
with his revolver, demanded five thousand dollars. At the same time the
other stood in the doorway, also with a loaded revolver."

"Why didn't the teller shoot him down?" asked Luke.

"My friend, bank officers are not provided with loaded revolvers when on
duty. Besides, the ruffian had the drop on him."

"Well?" asked Luke.

"What could the teller do? Li