"I want you first to answer my questions," Dave went on. "After that I'll
see what happens. It's according to how much truth there is in what you
have said."

"Oh, it's true all right," sneered the bully.

"Then I demand to know who told you!"

Dave's hand shot out and grasped the bridle of the other's horse, and
Len's plan of flight was frustrated.

"Let me go!" he whiningly demanded.

"Not until you tell me who said I am a nobody--that Mr. Carson is not my
father," Dave said, firmly.

"I--I----" began the shrinking Len, when the sound of another horseman
approaching caused both lads to turn slightly in their saddles. Dave half
expected to see Pocus Pete, but he beheld the not very edifying
countenance of Whitey Wasson, a tow-headed cowpuncher belonging to the
Centre O outfit. Whitey and Len were reported to be cronies, and
companions in more than one not altogether pleasant incident.

"Oh, here you are; eh; Len?" began Whitey. "And I see you've got the
strays."

"Yes, I've got 'em," said Len, shortly.

"Any trouble?" went on Whitey, with a quick glance at Dave. The position
of the two lads--Dave with his hand grasping Len's bridle--was too