Pagina 103 van 439

"We shall have to leave at once, mother, without waiting to dress

the children," explained Fraser. "Wrap them in blankets and take

some clothes along. I'll drop you at the hotel and slip my

prisoner into the jail the back way if I can; that is, if another

plan I have doesn't work."

The oldest child awoke and caught sight of Fraser. He reached out

his hands in excitement and began to call: "Uncle Steve! Uncle

Steve back again."

Fraser picked up the youngster. "Yes, Uncle Steve is back. But

we're going to play a game that Indians are after us. Webb must

be good and keep very, very still. He mustn't say a word till

uncle tells him he may."

The little fellow clapped his hands. "Goody, goody! Shall we

begin now?"

"Right this minute, son. Better take your money with you, mother.

Is father here?"

"No, he is at the ranch. He went down in the stage to-day."

"All right, friends. We'll take the back way. Tennessee, will you

look out for Mr. Struve? Sis will want to carry the baby."