If, by any chance, the bandits learned who had interfered
with them, it might be necessary for Professor Zepplin and his
charges to make lively tracks for the border and seek other fields
of adventure.
The same thought was in the minds of all except Chunky, who held his
head erect, his chest swelled out. He was full of their great
achievements and was telling what he would do if any of the bandits
came to visit their camp.
"I think we will put you on guard to-night, seeing that you are such a
brave young man," said the professor with a twinkle.
"On guard?"
"Yes."
"Yes, that's the idea. Let him take the watch," approved Rector.
"You forget that I'm a wounded man. You forget I've been shot twice
to-day. Huh! Some of you children take the trick. I've got to take
care of my health."
"I guess if we expect to get any sleep we had better let some one else
do it," agreed Tad. "Chunky will have us out on false alarms all
night long."
They were agreed upon this, and by common consent Butler was given the
watch for the night. The boys slept with their rifles beside them
that night.
The night passed without incident, Tad Butler keeping a vigilant watch
all during the dark hours of the night. He had plenty of time to think
matters over. He realized that Dunk Tucker, the prisoner, had
overheard all that had been said during their talk with Withem out on
the plain.
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