"Why do you say that, and how do you know?" Dave asked. In spite of his
dislike of Len, and the knowledge that the bully was not noted for truth-
telling, Dave could not repress a cold chill of fear that seemed to clutch
his heart.

"I say that because it's so, and how I know it is none of your affair,"
retorted Len.

"Oh yes, it is my affair, too!" Dave exclaimed. He was fast regaining
control of himself. "It is very much my affair. I demand an explanation.
How do you know Mr. Carson isn't my father?"

"Well, I know all right. He picked you up somewhere. He doesn't know what
your name is himself. He just let you use his, and he called you Dave.
You're a nobody I tell you!"

Dave spurred his horse until it was close beside that of Len's. Then
leaning over in the saddle, until his face was very near to that of the
bully's, and with blazing eyes looking directly into the shrinking ones of
the other rancher's son, Dave said slowly, but with great emphasis:

"Who--told--you?"

There was menace in his tone and attitude, and Len shrank back.

"Oh, don't be afraid!" Dave laughed mirthlessly. "I'm not going to strike
you--not now."

"You--you'd better not," Len muttered.