s, and who had given
his name, as John Armstrong.

"I think we've had an accident," said Mr. Armstrong.

"An accident? Is anybody killed?"

"No, I do not think so. Suppose we get out and see what the trouble
is?"

They left their seats, and joined the other passengers who were walking
toward the head of the train, which was a long one. It did not take
many seconds to ascertain that an accident had occurred to the engine
of the express, and that it would be necessary to send to the next
station to get materials to make repairs.

"That means we'll be held here for some time," observed Mr. Armstrong.
"Well, if the delay is not too long, it will give you a chance to walk
about and stretch your muscles."

"And I'll be glad enough to do it," replied Roy. "I'm not used to
sitting still, and it sure is very tiresome to me. I'd like to have my
pony, Jack Rabbit, here now. I'd take a fine gallop."

"Well, I think a walk will have to answer in place of it now. There
does not seem to be much in the way of amusements at this station."

The depot was a mere shanty, with a small telegraph and ticket office
in it. A few houses and a store made up the "town," which was located
on the plains.

As Roy started toward the depot many of the passengers got back in
their cars, as the sun was hot. Roy, however, rather enjoyed it.
Among those who had alighted were Mr. Baker and his three cronies.
They stood on the depot platform, talking together.

"Maybe they're trying to get up some new scheme to get me to gamble,"
thought Roy. As he neared the station his attention was attracted by a
rather curious figure.

This was a young man whom Roy at once characterized as a "dude," for he
and the cowboys had been in the habit of so calling any one who was as
well dressed as was the stranger. And Roy at once knew that the man
had not been on the train before, as the boy from the ranch had seen
all the passengers during his journey.

The "tenderfoot", as Roy also characterized him, was attired in a light
suit, the trousers very much creased. He had on a purple necktie,
rather a high collar, and patent leather shoes. In his hand he carried
a light cane, and in one eye was a glass, called a monocle. Beside him
was a dress-suit case, and he looked as if he was ready to travel.

Roy glanced at him, and was inclined to smile at the elaborate costume
of the youth, for the western lad had the usual cattleman's contempt
for fashiona