Once outside, and strolling slowly along, Reade confided to his chum: "Harry, you can see what big fellows we two youngsters are going to be in a Rocky Mountain railroad camp.

We haven't a blessed thing to do but play marbles until the chief can see us." "I can spare the time, if the chief can," laughed Harry.

"Hello---look who's here!" Bad Pete, now on foot, had turned into the camp from the farther side.

Espying the boys he swaggered over toward them.
"How do you do, sir ?" nodded Tom.
"Can't you two tenderfeet mind your own business ?" snarled Pete, halting and scowling angrily at them.
"Now, I come to think of it," admitted Tom, "it _was_ meddlesome on my part to ask after your health.

I beg your pardon." "Say, are you two tenderfeet trying to git fresh with me ?" demanded Bad Pete, drawing himself up to his full height and gazing at them out of flashing eyes.
Almost unconsciously Tom Reade drew himself up, showing hints of his athletic figure through the folds of his clothing.
"No, Peter," he said quietly.