Here, let me put the field-glasses away. Half an
hour's gallop, and we'll jump off. That ought to bring us to the foot
of the slope. Here you go, Buckskin; show us you're not tired after
your day's run. Whoop-la!"
Frank brought his hat down on the flank of the horse, accompanying the
action with a real cowboy yell. Instantly the spirited steed bounded
off, with Bob's Domino close behind, snorting, and giving signs of
astonishing animation.
So they sped along, with clanking sounds from the various packages
fastened behind the saddles; but after a few minutes both boys
gradually drew upon the lines, knowing full well that their mounts had
done a fair day's work already; and, besides, there was no possible
need of haste.
"How's this for a camping place?" asked Frank, as he suddenly brought
Buckskin upon his haunches in a quick stop.
"Suits me first rate," replied his chum, after giving a glance around.
"Let's see if I remember all you told me about what a fellow has to
look for when he expects to go into camp. Water handy, grass for the
horses, wood for a fire, and shelter from a hidden mountain storm.
What better could we ask, I'd like to know? Is it a go, Frank?"
For answer the shorter lad jumped from his seat. His first act was to
remove the saddle, and then, with a handful of dead grass, rub the
sweaty back of the mettlesome animal, as every true son of the plains
always does before he thinks of his own comfort.
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