ahead and wait
for you near the Three Forks."

"It wont do," said Gulpin, impatiently. "Go and pick the pocket of the
man that has got the key of our irons, and then we can kill every devil
connected with the troop."

"Hush," replied Bimbo, after a hurried glance at my face. "Them two
blasted Yankees are sleeping close here, and I think both of 'em has
spotted me. I'd like to cut their throats bloody well."

"I have no doubt of it," I thought, "but I'll save you the trouble."

"Go and get the key," repeated Gulpin, with an oath, "and then pass in
all the guns and knives that you can get hold of. When I give a signal,
knock down the sentry at the door, and mind that you hit him hard enough
to prevent his squalling--you understand?"

"Yes, yes; but if I do all that, what share'll I get in the swag in the
cellar? I've kept it for a long time now, and you know it."

"You shall have Darnley's share, if you do as I tell you," replied
Gulpin.

"What'll Darnley say to that?"

"He won't say much, 'cos he's stiffened out--dead as the devil."

This piece of information so elated the stockman that he did not stop to
make further inquiries, but disappeared around the corner of the house,
and when I raised my head to consult with Fred in regard to the matter,
I found that he was as wide awake as myself, and was apparently debating
what course he should pursue.

"Have you heard all?" I whispered.

Fred nodded his head, and laid his hand upon his lips. Then, by a
gesture which I understood, he counselled that we should remain quiet
for a short time, and see how matters worked.

Following this advice, however, did not prevent us from examining our
revolvers and rifles, and also bringing the handles of our bowie knives
to a better position. When Bimbo returned, with a cat-like tread, I
could see by his carrying a carbine that he had been successful; and
when I saw him thrust it into the hole, and then give up the key of the
irons, I had a great mind to shoot him on the spot.

"Here," cried Bimbo, "is the key of the ruffles. Remain quiet for half
an hour, and by that time I'll be ready for you. Remember your
word--Darnley's share."

"All right!" exclaimed the robber, grasping with his manacled hand the
precious key to his irons, and as soon as he had possession of it, Bimbo
glided away to complete his plot.

"We must be acting," said Fred, springing to his feet; and as he spoke
we sauntered to the front of the hut, and