he ranch. "He
must have put some drug in that soda to make me partly unconscious. I
remember now it had tasted queer. Then he brought me here. But what
for? I can't understand it. I wonder if I can escape?"

Once more Roy tried to loosen the ropes, but the effort was too much,
and his head, which was not tied down, fell back. He was unconscious.

CHAPTER XXI

A DANGEROUS DESCENT

When Roy regained his senses again, he felt much better. He was still
tied down on the bed, and Wakely was sitting near him.

"Well, you were quiet enough," remarked the man with a sneer. "I've
got something here to eat. You can take it, if you don't raise a row."

"Oh, I'll take it," said Roy. He knew if he was to make an effort to
escape, which he fully intended to do, he would need all his strength,
and food was necessary.

"Then, I'll loosen the ropes a bit. But, mind now, no funny work, or
I'll tackle you."

Roy had his own opinion as to how he would fare in a tussel with
Wakely, but he said nothing. The ropes were loosened and the boy
partook of the food. He felt better after it.

It was now dark, and Wakely lighted the gas in the room. Roy wondered
whether it was the same day he had been taken from the hotel, or
whether several had elapsed. It was the same day, as he learned later.

"Now, I'm going to sleep in the next room," went on the man, "and I
warn you I'll awaken at the slightest sound. If you try any
tricks--well, it will be better if you don't. As I said, no harm will
come to you--if you're quiet."

Roy did not answer. He wanted to think out a plan of action. He was
puzzled over the queer situation, and wondering who could have any
object in keeping him a prisoner. He did not associate Caleb Annister
with it.

After the meal Wakely again adjusted the ropes about the boy on the
bed, and Roy offered no objections. He was sure when the time came he
could undo the bonds. For what Roy did not know about tying ropes, to
hold anything from a bucking bronco to a wild steer, was not worth
knowing. He was in a situation now where his life on the ranch was
likely to stand him in good stead.

"You can go to sleep whenever you want to," said Wakely. "But
remember--no tricks!"

Roy did not answer. He wanted to think, and he knew he could do it
best in the dark. Presently Wakely turned off the gas, and withdrew,
again locking the door.

It did not need much listening on Roy's part to show th