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"I'm to take a day off and ride around among the boys, so as to

see them before Jed does. I'm to load 'em up with

misrepresentations about how you and the sheriff happen to be

working in cahoots. I gathered that the lady is through with you,

but she don't want your scalp collected by the boys."

"I'm learning to be thankful for small favors," Fraser said

dryly. "She figures me up a skunk, but hates to have me

massacreed in her back yard. Ain't that about it, Dick?"

"Somewheres betwixt and between," France nodded. "Say, you lads

going to the dance at Millikan's?"

"Didn't know there was one."

"Sure. Big doings. Monday night. Always have a dance after the

spring round-up. Jed and his friends will be there--that ought to

fetch you!" Dick grinned.

"I haven't noticed any pressing invitation to my address yet,"

said Steve.