"What?"

"You're going to ride a mule from this point on."



CHAPTER VIII

THE INDIAN MAKES A DISCOVERY


It was not a cheerful breakfast to which the lads sat down. It seemed
as if nothing but trouble had overtaken them ever since they had been
in the Ozark Mountains.

They had just finished when the Indian rode in on Ned's mount, which
he had chosen for his journey.

This was something at least to detract their attention from their
troubles.

"Hey, you haven't got back, have you?" taunted Ned, noting the flecks
of foam on his pony with disapproving eyes.

"Me back," grinned the Indian.

"I see you are," replied the Professor dryly. "Where's the rope?"

"Yes; we don't care so much about seeing you, but we want that rope,"
added Ned emphatically.