e can be bought in
any of the big establishments."

"T'ank you," replied the African, who thought it best not to repel the
offer of her friend; "dese am gettin' wored consid'ble, and by de time
you got back, I'll need anoder pair."

The evening was advancing. In answer to Ballyhoo's inquiries, Captain
Shirril looked at his watch, and said that it was nearly eleven
o'clock.

"I must be off," remarked the tall ranchman, rising to his feet; "we
make an early start, and I don't know how the boys have made out with
the cattle; they may need my help."

"I may as well go with you," said Avon, looking inquiringly at his
uncle; "for there is to be no more work here."

"It will be just as well," replied the captain.

The youth took his saddle and accoutrements from the corner, where
they had been lying, and stepping outside, adjusted them upon
Thunderbolt, who whinnied with pleasure at the promise of carrying
his loved owner on his back indefinitely. The two had become attached
by their companionship on the hunt and ranch, and the delight of the
youth on recovering his mustang was beyond expression.

While he was busy at this brief task, the members of the little family
kept their feet, discussing matters in which each was interested.

"Well, I'm ready, Ballyhoo," called Avon, in his cheery voice, stepping
quickly through the open door.

He placed one arm around the neck of his aunt and kissed her
affectionately, shook hands with Dinah, adding as he crossed palms with
his uncle:

"I expect to see you again, soon. Keep up a good heart, auntie, while we
are gone, which I don't think will be for long. Good-by, all!"

He put his foot in the stirrup, swung himself into the saddle, at the
same moment that his companion did the same, and the couple headed their
animals to the northward.

Captain Shirril and the women remained in the door, looking forth in the
darkness, and listening until the sounds of the hoofs died out in the
distance. Then the Texan led the way inside, adjusting the bar in place
so that no one could enter without permission.

The extra horse which Avon had ridden to the cabin was turned loose in
the bush, to be recovered and used by the captain when he wished to ride
to the camp. Ballyhoo had removed the saddle and bridle, which lay in
the corner where Avon's had awaited him.

The Texan stood a minute, looking around the room, as if trying to
recall any forgotten duty, but thought of none.

"It is