The lad was still eating when Tom Phipps returned.

"What luck?" cried Tad anxiously.

"It's all right. I've rounded up enough ponies for the party. I have
called six of the miners from work. They are men who know the
mountains. The cook in the chuck house is preparing food for you to
take back with you--that is if you intend to go--"

"Of course I do," spoke up Tad quickly.

"I think it will be best for the whole party to return with you to the
place where your friends are camped. From that point they can start
on the trail. They'll find the Professor. No doubt about that.
After you all get back we will talk with you about the loss of your
stock. Perhaps your experience may help us to land the band. I hope
so."

"Can--can your men find their way in the dark?"

"I should say they could. Some of them know now from my description
just where your camp is. Don't worry about that. Here they come
now."

The miners, leading an extra pony for Tad, rode up at that moment.
When they glanced at the slight, boyish figure of Tad Butler they were
of the opinion that he had best remain at the mining camp. They did
not believe him hardy enough to stand the grilling journey that lay
before them.