he others and all took a walk, so that
their conversation might not be overheard.

"This only adds to the mystery," said Tom after Dick had repeated
what the tavern keeper had said. "I am more anxious now than ever to
visit Red Rock ranch, as they call it."

"So am I," added Sam. "And remember, we want to catch Dan Baxter if
we can."

"Well, we can't go ahead and back too, boys," came from Dick. "If we
really mean to investigate, we ought to send Mr. Denton and the ladies
and the girls word. If we don't, and we are delayed any great length
of time, they will be sure to worry about us."

"Maybe we can telephone," suggested Songbird. "Don't you see the
wires? Some of the plantations must have the service."

"That's the talk!" cried Fred. "Let us try it, anyway."

They walked to the nearest station and looked over the book. But the
Denton plantation was not mentioned.

"We can send a letter," said Dick. "That will get there before they
have a chance to worry."

They returned to the tavern, and there the communication was written,
and later on dropped in the post-office. Then they held another
consultation.

"Those fellows around that ranch are all armed beyond a doubt," said
Tom. "I think we ought to get something in the shape of firearms."

"We've got a gun and a pistol now," answered Dick.

"Say, I ton't vos go pack of der been schootin' goin' on!" cried
Hans. "I tole you dot Sack Todd been a pad man."

"You can remain behind, Hans," returned Sam.

"He can go on to Mr. Denton's," said Songbird.

"Not much--I stick py der crowd," said the German youth. He thought
it worse to leave them than to confront any possible perils.

Their horses had been fed and cared for, and by the middle of the
afternoon each was provided with a pistol, the extra weapons being
secured at the local hardware establishment.

"Afraid of outlaws?" questioned the man who sold the pistols.

"There is nothing like being armed," answered Dick. "On some of these
trails, there is no telling what sort of persons you will meet."

"I've got an idea," said Tom when they were on the street again. "Why
not take our time and move on Red Rock ranch after dark?"

"And lose our way," came from Sam.

"Well, we can't use that trail in the daylight. That old man will be
sure to halt us."

"We can get around the old man somehow," said Songbird. "As soon as
we spot him, we can make a detour."

By four o'clock, they were on the way. Not to exc