een causing us all this trouble?" demanded Dippy.
"Let me at him! Let me at him!"

"Here, take him, but don't make too much noise about it," grinned the
Ranger captain. "And don't be too rough about it, either."

Dippy had Stacy by the collar. With a powerful hand he jerked the fat
boy across his saddle and such a spanking as Stacy Brown got that
night he had not had since he was considerably younger. The other
Rangers clamored for a chance at him, but after Dippy had finished
the captain decided that the fat boy had had enough. There was
stern business on hand. Still McKay thought a lesson might not come
amiss at that time, so he had permitted the little diversion.

Growling and threatening, Stacy was dropped back into his saddle.

"Remember, we haven't had our turn yet," warned Cad Morgan. "Remember,
you've spoiled a few hours of sleep for us fellows."

"Yes and re---re---remember you made me stand in the mesquite bush
for three hours waiting for the 'possum to jump into the bag,"
reminded Stacy. "I guess we are about even now. But, if you want
some more trouble, I'll think some up for you. If I can't think it
out alone Tad will help me."

"I don't believe you need any assistance," laughed the captain. "No
more disturbance now. Gentlemen, I am going to divide up our party.
The time has arrived for me to tell you my plans. I have received
information from one of my scouts that some half dozen of the men we
want are heading for a point yonder in the mountains. They are to
rendezvous at a place about three miles from here where they are to
meet others of their outfit. It is my intention to surround them.
One of my men is now on their trail, following them as closely as
possible. There may be some shooting. If any of you wish to stay
back you may go into camp right here and we will pick you up later."

"No, no! Take us along," begged the boys. "We don't want to be left
behind. How about you, Chunky?" called Tad.

"No, I don't want to be left. I---I guess I'd be afraid to stay here
all alone."

The captain quickly disposed of his forces, directing Tad Butler
to come with him. Upon. second thought he decided to take Stacy
along also, perhaps believing that it would be safer to have the
fat boy under his own eyes, as there was no telling what Chunky
might otherwise do.

The party broke up, leaving the spot in twos, after having received
their orders, but in each case the Pony Rider Boys were