fly plastered against a wall; but it might have been noticed that he was
the first one to reach the edge of the platform and breathe encouraging
words to his endangered chum.

Mr. Mabie knew what would be needed before he made the first movement.

"Bring your rope, Reddy!" he shouted, and the agile cowboy had obeyed.

This was quickly lowered until the noose dangled below Frank.

"Use one foot to draw it in, my boy. We want you to get both legs inside
the loop, and then gradually let us draw it up under your arms. It's all
right. We're going to have you out of that, so don't worry!" called the
ranchman.

"You can depend on it, Frank isn't frightened. If that bush threatens to
go, get a quick grip of the rope! Do you understand, Frank?" called
Jerry.

A quick nod of the head told that the one below realized he was as good
as drawn up already. One foot was cautiously withdrawn from its support
and the loop caught; then the second also passed inside the circle;
after which a tightening of the lariat brought it up to where Mr. Mabie
wanted to have it.

"Now here you come, my boy!" he called cheerily.

Frank let go his frenzied clutch, and swung into space; but willing
hands quickly drew him up until he stood with his chums.