They surged to the front of the pursuers, who took it for granted that Dick and his friends were going to aid them, and therefore set up a shout of joy.
Hen Dutcher was traveling with so much effort that he panted hard as he skated.
"Get him, Dick!" sang out Ben Alvord, as Prescott shot ahead of the others.
Hen, looking back, saw Dick gaining on him swiftly, while Greg and Tom were just behind.
"They're mean as all-git-out!" sputtered panting Hen.

"Why can't they let a fellow alone?
Don't they think I've got as much right to talk as the rest of 'em?
Well, I'll show 'em that I have!" At this moment Dick overtook the fugitive, linking arms with him.
"You let me alone!" snarled Hen.

"You're meaner'n poison!" "Am I ?" smiled Dick.

"See here, Hen, face about and don't let the fellows bluff you out of a week's growth.

Just turn on them.