 Chapter 18 of the Boy Scouts of the Rockies This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org Recording by Shasta, Oakland, California The Boy Scouts in the Rockies by Herbert Carter Chapter 18 Pure Pluck Well, I'm glad they're departed, because somehow I couldn't fancy that Mr. Ross and the least little bit remarked Smithy an hour later. Do you really think they have gone for good, Toby? Stephen asked eagerly, or might they just make believe and hang around here to see if we had Alec Rossen hidden away somewhere? Oh, they're gone. That's right enough, replied the guide. But I'm kinder of the notion that I'll make it a pain to pay a visit to the other camp by morning and perhaps sneak in on them by surprise like. Then you're of a mind that they have suspicions, asked Stephen. That thar Artemis Rossen, I reckon, he always has suspicions of everybody, replied Toby. And I seen him watching you two boys pass winks and nods when the sheriff, he happened to say the gent's name was Rossen. Then he must have guessed that we knew something about Alec, declared Davey. Recognize how he did, Toby responded. But if that was so, how did it come that it never once asked us if we knew a boy by the name of Alec Rossen? Stephen went on. He was just a little too slick for that, the guide answered. He knowed that you'd make up your mind to deny everything, and he guessed how the land laid. So right now, I shouldn't wonder a bit but what he's telling Bob all about it and showing him how they'll as like as not find the boy they want right smack in the camp of Boy Scouts. You're right, Toby, cried Stephen. Now I remember that the sheriff seemed a little bit inclined to put up all night with us, but it was the other who said he wanted to be on the move. He even asked how long it would take to reach the main valley over on the other side of this ridge by following the canyon route and vowed he was good for a few hours' trap if the sheriff was agreeable. Yes, and he told how one of their horses came down lame so they had to leave both animals in place to rest up while they was in the mountains, remarked the guide. But it's sure too bad the way things is setting for that boy. You mean Alec, I guess, don't you, Toby, asked Stephen? Yes, Alec Rossen. I wanted to see the kid get that mind his dad found years ago, but seems to me the woods is full of people as think they ought to have a claim on it before the family of Jerry Rossen. If so be this old chap as an uncle to the boy. He's a bad egg. I can see that in his face, but Sheriff Bob thinks he's doing the right thing trying to arrest Alec, and he'll take him away. If he ever leaves eyes on him, I say it's too bad. If we could only warn them, said Smithy, disconsolently. Maybe we can, remarked Stephen, eagerly looking at the guide in the same breath as though it depended a good deal upon Toby whether this idea could be carried out or not. Oh, do you really mean it, Stephen? demanded Smithy, brightening up, for he seemed to be conscious of a new sense of reliance in the other, nowadays, something similar to that he felt in Thad himself. Stephen had been doing things, and that alone breeds confidence. I'm wanting to ask Toby something first before I promise, remarked the other, cautiously as became one who valued his word, not lightly. Go on then, what is it? asked the guide. Think hard, please, Stephen continued, very soberly, and tell me, if you believe you could take me to a place not a great ways off, where we would be able to see the tents of the home camp if daylight was here. Toby's face turned into a grin. Evidently, he grasped the idea that had flashed into the boy's mind. After having seen how Giraffe had talked with Alec by means of fire flashes when the rossin boy was away up on that ledge of the cliff, Toby was ready to believe these wonderful scouts capable of almost anything in the line of next miracles. Say, yes, I can do that same now. That is, if you think you'd be able to climb a little bit more, he broke out with. Oh, I'm not all tuckered out yet, declared Stephen proudly. I bit sore from my scratches and that funny business when I had to jump around so lively with two savage eagles trying to tear my eyes out. But you just show me, Toby, and see if I don't tow the mark like a scout always should. I am sure you will, said Toby admiringly, and the look on his face gave Stephen a sense of reward for all he had suffered. In fact, he could not remember ever feeling so pleased before because he knew Toby Smethers was reckoned a prime judge of men as they ran. How long would it take us to get up there, asked Stephen carelessly, yet no doubt with more or less anxiety, for he was conscious of the fact that however willing the spirit might be, the flesh was weak, and it meant a double trip to go and come again. Perhaps half an hour might do it, was the response of the guide. A place like this gasped Smethy pointing to the wall near them. Well, I should hope not, said Davy Jones. They'd be crazy to try that sort of thing with only the moonlight to help. Stephen did not say anything, but nevertheless he waited with bated breath to hear the reply of the guide and seemed easier in his mind when Toby remarked, I don't doubt as he'd follow me if I says we must climb up to the top of that same cliff again, but taint necessary. This time we can follow a canyon up till he gets to a pint as gives a view of the valley. I don't sure know, but I reckon we ought to be able to catch him. Then let's start right now, cried Stephen. I am all worked up with eagerness to block the little game that that old Ross and Uncle is setting up for poor Alec. We said that we'd see the boy through and we're going to do it, or drop in our tracks a try-on. He managed to get on his feet but only with an effort. Oh yes, I admit I'm some stiff, he said in answer to Smithy's look of sympathy, and I'd like us not let Davy do it in my place. Only he ain't up in sending messages as much as I am. Wish giraffe was here. He's the boss hand at that, but perhaps I can make that understand. I only hope we get the camp all right, that's all. It was the spirit that makes heroes that forced Stephen to quit that cozy camp where he was feeling so nice and comfortable and follow after the tearless guide when he walked on up the canyon. But they would not hear a single groan from him if he had to make his lips bleed, biting them with his teeth. Stephen had always wondered just how old the martyrs felt when they were being led to the stake. He believed he knew now, for he experienced a fierce sense of exultation with every twinge of pain that walking gave him but with set teeth he kept grimly on. That was a long half-hour to the scout. He would never forget it to his dying day. And when Toby finally, after what seemed in eternity, announced that they must be very close on the point where in the moonlight much of the big valley could be seen dimly beyond. Stephen mentally thanked his stars again and again. Presently Toby turned and looked. She is, he remarked, and the boy grunted in reply, for there may be times when the spirit of face-giving is too deep for utterance. I see her, Toby remarked, almost immediately afterwards. Do you mean the fire, Toby? Demanded Stephen. It can't be anything else even though they've let it get low. And now we've a job for us to get some blades started right here. Wood ain't too plenty around these parts. Let's look for some. But when Stephen started after him, the guide made him sit down to rest, promising to come to him when the fire was good and ready. Your part of the work will begin about that time. This fire-making the good-hearted guide insisted, and the boy was only too willing to sink down. A short time afterwards when Toby came to announce that the fire was in full blast with plenty of good brands that might be used for torches, he found poor Stephen sound asleep just as he had dropped, being utterly exhausted. The guide looked down at him with pity. He had taken a great fancy for the plucky scout and disliked arousing him the worst kind, but there was no other way. Stephen had to be shaken half a dozen times before he would consent to open his heavy eyes. Then he stared up at Toby as though for the moment place things. I got the fire started and there's plenty of wood handy after all for you to use as torches when you signal the camp, said the guide kindly. Oh, cried Stephen sitting up, do be sure and I really think I must have been dozing while you were doing all the work, Toby. Give me a hand, won't you please? I'm ashamed to say my leg seems so silly stiff at the knees I just can't straighten them out. Wow, to think of me being such a baby as to feel that little circus this way. I'm real ashamed, that's what. You ain't got no call to be. I promise you, boy, declare the other a tremor in his voice. You showed the pluck of a grown man and if I could have took your place, which of course I couldn't, never having been trained to wig-wag or handle a telegraph key, I'd sure let you sleep on for you deserve it. That's right. Stephen made a few movements, regardless of the pain it gave him, so as to get his arms in working order, because he knew he would have to use them for a great deal if he were lucky enough to get an answer to his signals. The guide showed him where to stand, where he would be in the shadow, and the blazing, moving torch show as he then pointed out the distant fire down through the gap in the mountain chain. They ain't touched it since we came here, he remarked, but that makes me think it might be done any minute now, so perhaps it better show me the way to fling that their torch around to let him know we're here and want him to talk. I can do that part I reckon, and save you some work. Stephen was agreeable for he knew that he would have all he could do later on to handle that beacon and he found a chance to send the message he wanted the scoutmaster to get. For some time Toby waved his torch around without there being any response, and it began to look as though he might have all his trouble for his pains. When Stephen was heard to give a little eager cry there he exclaimed I believe I saw the wolf just then. Yes, look Toby there it is again and as sure as you live they're answering us. Now, give me the torch I only hope I haven't forgotten all I knew about sending messages because all poor Alex hopes for his future may hang on my being able to warn them the sheriff and old Artemis are heading their way. Now watch close Toby I'm going to start in. End of Chapter 18 Chapter 19 of the Boy Scouts of the Rockies This is a LibriVox recording All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain For more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Recording by Shasta Oakland, California The Boy Scouts in the Rockies by Herbert Carter Chapter 18 The Warning Stephen was all of a tremble when he first began to handle that burning splinter of wood provided by Toby Spanthers to serve as a fiery stephen. And with which he hoped to write letters in the dark background he had chosen for his location. Just as he had himself declared regretfully now Stephen had never been a shining light in this code business. Indeed, up to lately he had rather considered the whole thing something of a great bore and preferred out on the hills to wave signal flags he had only obeyed under protest. There had been plenty of things he much preferred to this sort of detail work. But after seeing how successfully a method of communication had been established between the Scouts in camp and Alec when the letter was being held a prisoner up on that shelf of rock Stephen had had his eyes opened he realized what a really valuable thing a little knowledge along these lines was apt to prove at most any time and he had then and there resolved to improve his scanty share of information whenever the chance came. Right now he's glad that since that occasion he had been asking some questions along the line of acquiring information he had even had half an hour's practice with FAD early in the morning sending and receiving messages. How fortunate that was Stephen reflected just now when he found himself placed in a position where a knowledge of wigwag work was going to prove of the utmost importance to the boy whom the Scouts had taken in charge. At the same time it was with considerable nervousness that he started in to ask his first question. He meant to inquire if the one answering him were FAD himself but when he had made this letter of the message Stephen was afraid that might seem so bungled that all he would receive might be the well-known signal don't understand repeat message but to his delight there came the three letters yes encouraged by this Stephen became more ambitious spelled out his own name and added a few more words. This is Stephen something important then he almost held his breath as he waited to see what effect this would have. The answer began to come back slowly and positively FAD allowed plenty of time for the other to make sure of every sign and staring eagerly unconsciously spelling aloud just as he received the message Stephen caught this. All right understand let us have news it's going splendidly Toby tried Stephen almost ready to jump up and down in his excitement and joy despite his weary condition FAD's taking it word for word I reckon I can make him understand something even if I am such a big bungler at this thing but I tell you right now after this I'm going in for wig-wide work the hardest you ever saw just the greatest stunt a scout can follow up why this worth everything else at such a time as this now to tell him about the two men headed that way and how they're after Alec Rossin with that Stephen once more applied himself to the task before him his heart was set on doing something that the scout master would compliment him on when next they met Stephen had aroused himself to the fact that an occasion like this demanded that a scout should prove his worth that might mean a merit medal for him if his services were deemed of sufficient value Toby seeing that the torch would not be likely to last out the labored conversation that was to follow busied himself in getting another ready and he was as good a hand at a fire as giraffe this did not prove a heavy task meanwhile Stephen kept on sending his messages in short, jerky sentences he let confidence in himself and dared not lodge boldly forth in a description of a strange thing that had happened since the four of them had made camp after their big horn punt when he had spelled a sentence he would almost invariably add the query understand meaning to repeat if the answer came in the negative but that was an expert at this sort of work and could puzzle out the meaning of what Stephen so blunderingly sent almost as though he might be a mind reader two men came into our camp after dark went the opening message yes they had replied briefly and evidently not meaning to say anything calculated to confuse the signal center one a sheriff named Bob McNulty other older man named Artemis Rawson got that there was a little interval at that perhaps that might be figuring it out or he may have mentioned the name aloud and be speaking with someone who was nearby possibly asking Alec if he recognized the name yes came the flash recently Stephen had begun to grow cold he felt that if he once found himself cornered and making mistakes he was apt to get rattled in his excitement and forget the little he really did know about sending and receiving so when Thad replied that he had grasped even that name and viewed with another relay of confidence when he started in once more he sent a little faster though the scout master that the first opportunity warned him to go slow and sure say looking for Alec that he has robbed uncle headed down valley when left here understand that yes but not so fast go on came the reply Stephen understood that Thad gave him this warning not because he was himself unable to receive at that rate where he had seen the patrol leader and Alan go smoothly along at twice the pace he was thinking of Stephen where he knew what was to happen if once the other overstepped the bounds and muddled himself up as like as not he would get his signals mixed and after that be utterly unable to send coherently be with you by morning we think they suspect Alec there, you know what to do yes good for you any more set hand side with relief the great burden of responsibility had fallen from his shoulders onto those broad ones of the scout master yes Thad would surely know what to do he always did when the emergency arose and that was what made his chums feel such implicit confidence in their leader and Stephen thought that while he was about it and the message business working so very smoothly he might as well let Thad know of their success so he managed to say we got two sheep good again Smithy shot one I got other had warm time I tell you anything new at the camp sure they came and paid us a visit Thad replied slowly so that not a word that Stephen lose as he spelled the message out you mean cracker he demanded yes he tried to ride over us rough shot but we took him down a peg sent the three men away kept their guns looking out for them all the time if you happen to meet hold them off Toby will know that was an extra long one to take and several times Stephen had to wave his torch so as to interrupt the sender and have him go back to the last period to repeat what he had to communicate for of course, Stephen like all new beginners in wigwag work telegraphy and kidrin danks was a better hand ascending than receiving because in the one case he knew in his own mind what was coming next and was not up to get confused while in taking the message if he lost one small fraction of the same while his mind was grappling with that he failed to catch the next letter and thus was apt to become hopelessly entangled but thanks to the intelligent manner in which had managed his end of the air wire and the positive way in which he moved his fire pencil the message was finally all grasped though Stephen was rapidly becoming exhausted by his efforts and the mental strain that bore on him so heavily better quiff thar advised the guide who kept a close watch on things and was able to understand just what the tired boy was enduring pretty soon Kobe replied Stephen slowly I've done better than I ever thought I would but the bad knows about that Artemis Rawson he'll see to it that Alec isn't around when they come to camp oh ain't I glad though I brushed up my code work with him early in the morning though that business with Alec in the night made me ashamed to be so dull I want to ask him one more question for there he's going to know if I'm done get through quick then we order be back in camp said the guide not unkindly but because he saw the condition of Stephen what is it that was signaling waiting each time after asking the question to receive an answer will you have Alec hide himself as the other thing we'll head back to camp in morning after get Smithy's horns first went on Stephen has he taken to growing a pair that asked physically his sheep I mean lies back a bit look for us about noon that all yes goodbye the last wavering movements of Feds torch far away in the distance told that he was echoing this concluding word then it vanished the talk fest was over and Stephen felt that at least he had done himself proud for one who had paid so little attention to this really important adjunct to the education of a Boy Scout and mark me he mumbled as the guy kindly threw an arm about his pattering figure though Stephen hardly comprehended the fact I am going to take up wigwag work after this sure I am never thought it could be so interesting it's sure great here's our camp ain't it you tell the boys what I did I'm feeling kind of tired like this I'll sit down a spell Davy Jones and Smithy were wild to know how it had all turned out and while the murmur of the guy's voice sounded as he related the story of the message sending poor played out Stephen sank to the ground dead firstly in less than two minutes he was lost to the world the last thing he heard being the low voice of Toby Smithers recounting the recent splendid feet of the Scout whose message had undoubtedly saved Alec Rossin from impending trouble End of Chapter 19 Chapter 20 of the Boy Scouts of the Rockies this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Recording by Shasta Hopeland, California The Boy Scouts in the Rockies by Herbert Carter Chapter 20 Sheriff Bob's Bomb Explodes There they come it was the observant old eagle eye as some of the boys called giraffe who gave utterance to these words Early morning was at hand all through the balance of the night those left in the camp in the valley had been momentarily expecting to have the Sheriff and his older companion to drop in on them but possibly Artemis may have found himself unable to travel as fast as his ambition would force him and the pair had been compelled to rest up somewhere on the road Everyone in the camp was of course on the line of duty at daybreak while Bumpus and Bob White started to get breakfast giraffe and Alan were using their eyes as best they could seeing that the mists still hung over the valley obscuring things at a little distance Thad was invisible also Alec Truth to tell they had be taken themselves off within an hour after that astounding message was received from a far distant point where a step hand waved his fiery torch Of course one of the first things Thad had done was to question the other concerning this man who called himself Artemis Rosson Alec admitted that he was in Truth his own uncle but added that the lawyer from Denver had fallen out of the same spell as many others and was allowing himself to dream of being the one to rediscover the long lost mind Alec had said that it seemed as though everyone who heard about it became imbued with a mad desire to possess the treasure there was Cracker who had made several long moments up here with that one object in view and was even then doing everything in his power to get possession of the secret crafty Uncle Artemis had gone about it in a different way he had hung around the dwelling place of the widow and in his sly lawyer like method tried to learn what was going on he suspected that the secret of the location of the mind had been discovered in some way from the change in the atmosphere about the Rosson home and the air of excitement that could not easily be subdued but no matter how he tried he could not learn just what it all meant then came the sudden vanishing of Alec this must have given the lawyer points and he started after the boy his accusation concerning his nephew having robbed him was of course all a part of a fine little scheme he had hatched up while the big prospector believed in actual force to squeeze the secret from the unwilling lips of the lad shrewd Uncle Artemis was inclined to try and make a show of having the law on his side but in both cases actually robbery was intended and Thad believed every word of the explanation made by Alec he could not have done otherwise looking into those frank and fearless eyes reading the clean soul of the Rawson boy so the scout master had decided that he and Alec would disappear from the valley camp for a short time leaving no trail by which they could be followed he did not tell a single one of his chums just what the plan was because he was desirous of keeping the secret then entice the sheriff questioned them concerning the movements of the missing two they could truthfully declare they did not know a thing about them but Thad made preparations looking to the tearing out of a bold project which he and the Rawson boy had talked over between themselves this was nothing more than a hunt for the long hidden silver mine Thad thought that the sooner Alec made sure his little chart found concealed in the back of that small pocket mirror which his dying father had placed in his hands was correct the better and that accounted for several queer things he did on leaving camp which the taking of the only lantern that had brought with him astonished Bumpus very much indeed not to mention Giraffe and Bob White the fox had not been invited to join in the expedition but later on it was found that he had disappeared still no one was worried for it seemed to be taken for granted that he must have followed Thad and Alec they remembered that the latter had claimed a long standing friendship with the fox and it was also known that the crow boy had become an ardent admirer of the scout master whom he believed to be a chief worth serving when Old Eagle Eye then announced that two men were coming the others craned their necks to look Alan told them not to appear too curious and so those who were busy at the fire went on with their culinary labors cooking a bountiful breakfast as it seemed they might have company Sheriff Bob and the lawyer soon strode into camp and the officer did the striding part for old Artemis seemed pretty nearly fagged out a burning desire to acquire a glorious fortune so easily was all that kept him up otherwise he would never have been able to have stood the long tramp as he did the first thing the Sheriff did after replying to the salutation of Alan was to scan each one of the boys in turn and then turning to his companion say firstly none of these the one you want I reckon sir the old Denver lawyer looked dreadfully disappointed his ferret like eyes had flitted from one to another of the scouts and each time he changed base his long cunning face grew more like a blank no my nephew isn't in sight as I can see Sheriff he replied with a frown and a look toward Alan as though to say that it was his opinion that the boy might produce the one they sought if proper force were applied having a hunt up here in the mountains boys as the Sheriff as he followed the example of the lawyer and dropped it down near the fire crossing his legs tailor fashion as though he meant to make himself quite at home yes we want to get a big horn or so to take back with us replied Alan just the four of you continued the other in his heavy brows as if with surprise oh no there are a lot of other fellows replied the scout who took Thad's place as leader when the other happened to be absent oh that's it eh rest off on a little side hunt right now I reckon perhaps you've got a guide along with you too the officer continued bending his neck so that he could see inside the nearest tent the flap of which happened to be on the side toward him and thrown back to allow of ventilation oh yes we've got a guide now though for a long time we had to go it alone and managed to get on pretty well Alan continued wondering why it was a peculiar quizzical gleam in the snapping eyes of the other once in a while when the sheriff looked straight at him who is he perhaps I might happen to know him asked the other accepting a tin cup filled with coffee from Bumpus I'm sure you do sir Alan hastened to remark Alan remembering that he was not supposed to know of the visit the sheriff and his employer had paid to the camp of the bighorn hunters on the previous night he hastened to add everybody knows honest Toby Smathers the forward ranger I should think well I should say yes I did replied the other family devour the peace of venison that had been placed on his platter as though his appetite was sharp indeed this bracing morning and so you boys have come away out here just to see what we've got in these Rockies huh just what we have sir replied giraffe thinking that he would like to have the sheriff notice him a little and I declare you seem to be fixed pretty comfortable like the other went on just look at the tents they brought with them Mr. Rosson I've always said that on the whole they were better than old fashioned tents you can see how the heat of the fire on a cold night is sent back into the tent and there's a plenty of headroom here yes both of them as cozy as you please he had seemed so very much interested in the subject that he even laid down his tin cup and platter and gaining his feet passed over to peer into each tent as if bent on ascertaining what the interior looked like Alan of course knew just what this meant the sheriff was looking for Alec as if he half expected to find the hunted boy concealed under a pile of blankets and yet it puzzled Alan to note that in spite of the keen disappointment which would naturally follow a feather to locate the boy Sheriff Bob was even chuckling as he once more sat him down in the circle and resumed operations on his breakfast something seemed to be amusing him Alan wished he could tell what he felt it must have some connection with the search for Alec Rosson though for the life of him he could not decide what was in the sheriff's mind the talk soon became so Artemis took no part in it he sent a beseeching glance every now and then in the direction of the officer as if begging him to do something but whatever it might be evidently Sheriff Bob was in no hurry and meant to finish that good breakfast first anyway presently as he emptied his platter at the second time and swallowed his third cup of scalding Java the officer remarked I know something about the Boy Scouts myself it happens got a youngster down below that belongs to a troop great thing teaches lads lots of the right kind of outdoor business makes them healthy on themselves my kid he's dead stuck on the signal business with flags and such glad to see it too takes me back to old times as sure as you live he stopped there and seemed to reflect it was as though memories might be arising that were pleasant to look back upon while Alan was conscious of something like a little thrill passing through him he seemed to feel that this was no accidental mention on the part of the man with the twinkle in his eye but in fact it might have something deep back of it yes Sheriff Bob went on presently turning straight toward Alan now to belong in the army years ago spent six years of my life in the signal corps and was accounted a pretty good operator in wigwag telegraph telephone building and heliograph work while I served and honest now I must say I never enjoyed a finer half hour than I spent last night being on a rock up younger and watching that lively little conflab you held with your chum who I think was the boy calling himself step hen he did the job pretty well considering and as for your thad he's chain lightning on the send yes Sheriff Bob that was a picnic to an old man like me as you can easily understand my boy the four scouts sat there as if frozen stiff consternation was written all over their faces and no wonder the humorous Sheriff as he saw what a bomb he had exploded chuckled and then laughed aloud chapter 20 chapter 21 of the Boy Scouts in the Rockies this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org recording by Chuck Barges Bradenton, Florida the Boy Scouts in the Rockies by Herbert Carter chapter 21 on the public side of the story that good and hearty laugh on the part of the Sheriff did more to reassure the Scouts than anything else could have done giraffe who had been holding his very breath in consternation allowed the air to flow in and out of his lungs again bumpus regained his color while his staring eyes concluded apparently not to pop out of his head this time and as for Alan and Bob White they lost some of the look of alarm yes, it was as good as a circus to just sit there and enjoy reading that little talk the Sheriff went on to say I could most imagine myself backing again in the army out in the Philippines teaching some of the awkward squad their peas and queues and the news was some interesting too so Alec he was to make himself scarce was he seems like he did that same too with another chuckle on a shrug of his shoulders toward the tents which he had so lately examined without profit Alan hardly knew what to say but boldly taking up the cudgels he presently remarked well, Mr. Sheriff what else could we do Alec was a Scout one of our organization and if you've got a son who belongs to it you must know that a Scout is always supposed to be ready to hold out a helping hand to a fellow member Alec was in trouble he had fallen into the hands of a party of prospectors headed by Colonel Cracker who were bent on forcing him to give up the secret they thought he carried concerning the long lost silver mine his father was said to have discovered years ago hmm say you so boy the other observed while the lawyer pricked up his ears as if suddenly interested Cracker around here is he well, that's some interesting news you're telling me you say the boy had fallen into their hands and that you rescued him if you'd like to hear about it I'll be only glad to tell you Alan went on to say eagerly for somehow he had already taken quite a fancy toward this Sheriff with a humorous twinkle in his eye and thought it only right to make a friend of him if it could be done all nonsense Mr. Sheriff spluttered old Artemis who feared lest his case might be losing its grip and that the officer would refuse to aid him even where the boy found he's trying to swing your sympathies around against my interests remember that you carry a warrant and are sworn to serve it I always does my duty Mr. Ross and don't you fear replied the Sheriff with a frown but just now it's a part of my business to hear all I can concerning the way your nephew came to join in with these boy scouts now just go on telling me what you started to say my boy at that Alan picked up fresh courage the Sheriff was inclined to favor them he realized even at the expense of straining his duty why one of our number giraffe here he said happened to be practicing the wigwam code outside the camp in the darkness using a brand he'd picked from the fire went his astonishment he saw answering signals from what seemed to be the sky well when we made out the one word help our interest was at once raised to fever pitch I should say it would be remarked Sheriff Bob showing the deepest attention as though the prospect for developments in the story began to excite him our scout master took matters in hand Alan went on you just said he was clever at sending and receiving messages well he's a cracker jack that's what he is and it so happened that Alec he not only belong to the scouts and had learned everything about signaling but he served as a telegraph operator for a short time on a side road when the regular man was taken sick so he could even beat our thad at talking with his hands and that's going some I tell you but what was Alec doing up there and where was he at the time asked the deeply interested Sheriff cracker and his two men had caught Alec and then able to make him tell what they wanted what do you think the cowards did lowered the boy down to a shelf on the face of the cliff and left him there saying he would starve unless he weakened and gave up his secret which Alec vows belongs to his mother alone and nothing on earth would make him betray and they left him there did they Groud Sheriff Bob frowning in a way to indicate his opinion of the said cracker just what they did he saw us come into the valley there might only be some more of the same kind of wolves wanting to torture a poor boy but when he saw giraffe here making letters with his fire stick something told Alec we must be boy scouts so finding some wood on the ledge he managed to make a little fire in a crack that ran into the rock and with a brand from this he started to call repeating that one word over and over again help this here is some interesting to me son remarked the big sheriff as Alan paused to get his breath for he was talking so fast and so eagerly that he had almost exhausted himself and so after you learned where he was and how he came to be there I reckon now you boys started to climb up and rescue the other how? that's what we did sir broken giraffe eagerly four of us counting the guide managed to climb up the mountain and with a rope we carried hooked Alec up off that ledge the prettiest you ever saw that's what we did with a defiant look towards old Artemis who was sniffing through all his talk just as though he refused to believe a word of it and that's the way we came to have him in our camp sir Alan went on to say we heard his story and believed it too he's got a mother and a lot of little sisters it was him to carry out the work his father started but everyone who ever hears a word about that hidden mind Jerry Rossin once found seems to be just crazy to take it away from his widow she is hardly a single friend to trust even a relatives plot to beat her out of this valuable mining property and try all sorts of things in hopes of getting hold of the secret and now you know just where we stand Mr. Sheriff we must say friends of Alec he was here just as you know but he's gone away and none of us know where to dad took him off during the night and all he said was we might expect to see him again when he showed up so you can't pump any information out of us you see and even if we knew anything we wouldn't tell a certain draft bullet-journately feeling that the honor of a scout was the most important part of the mission right then the Sheriff looked from one to another of those four boys faces by George now I reckon it wouldn't be any use in me trying to scare you by threatening to jail you for aiding in the escape of a desperate criminal would it he remarked pretending to look very serious but with that twinkle again in evidence as Alan saw you just couldn't declare a draft un-easily in his seat in the first place we don't know anything more than we've told you secondly we haven't assisted anybody to escape because we're right here Johnny on the spot and it's our scout master who's gone and then last of all there ain't any desperate criminal at all only a poor persecuted boy with a grit that you just want your own chap to show Mr. Sheriff ready to fight everybody for the sake of his mother and sisters Sheriff Bob wagged his head slowly as though mentally digesting what the other had just said hmm that remains to be seen boy he remarked although giraffe believed he did not feel one half as ferocious as he chose to look just then duty is duty no matter how unpleasant it may seem sometimes I'm glad to hear you take that sensible view of the matter Mr. Sheriff said the old Denver lawyer in his OLA tones you mustn't believe one-tenth of what boys say they would assume provericators eat their breakfast that is some of the breed would though doubtless your son is an exception to the rule these scouts as they choose to call themselves have fixed up a story to suit themselves and they hope to enlist your sympathy and I know that a stern sense of duty will compel you to close your ears to anything they may say I demand that you exercise every effort possible looking to the immediate arrest of my rascally nephew Alexander Rawson whom I accused of stealing valuable papers from my pocketbook while I was a guest under his mother's roof and then disappearing oh very well sir don't excite yourself about my movements remark sharp bob assuming a pompous air though Alan thought he went slyly in his direction while speaking you will find no cause to complain to my superior skin turning any shortcoming on my part and up to now you must admit I've been unflagging in my endeavor to locate the fugitive from justice make your mind easy Mr. Rawson I see my duty clear on the premises and can be dependent on to do it watching his chance a little later Alan followed the sheriff when the latter went to get a drink of water nearby Artemis slipped as though he wanted to keep them from having any communications out of his range of hearing but he sank back in his seat again plainly afraid of invoking the anger of the big sheriff who he already felt did not feel any too warmly towards him and his cause and as they sat down by the little stream to dip up some of the clear water with the tin cup sheriff Bob had made short to fetch along Alan made it a point to tell the other all that Alec had said about the motives of his father's lawyer brother and how for a long time he had bothered the widow trying to find out if she knew anything about the hidden mind which until lately of course she had not Alan knew how to talk more over he had an interesting listener in the officer and that counted for a great deal besides he felt deeply for the persecuted boy and his heart was filled with the desire to assist him secure the legacy left by his father then whom no living soul had ever gazed upon the hidden mind Sheriff Bob listened to all that the boy said several times he scratched his head reflectively and made a grimace as though conflicting forces had begun to engage him in an inward war and when finally Alan declared that he now knew all the officer drew a long breath and remarked quietly I seem to smell a pretty good size rat about this game Mr. Artemis is putting up but as I said the warrant he swore out is in my hands for serving and I just reckon I'll have to do my sworn duty and arrest the same Alec that is if so be he shows up while we're around here Alan looked him squarely in the eye and he was sure one of the lids above the blue orbs of the official dropped a little in a suggestive way he too drew a long breath and with a smile on his boy's face said as he arose thank you Mr. Sheriff thank you very much end of chapter 21 recording by Chuck Barges Bradenton Florida chapter 22 of the Boy Scouts in the Rockies this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org recording by Chuck Barges Bradenton Florida the Boy Scouts in the Rockies by Herbert Carter chapter 22 The Guardian of the Silver Load as has been mentioned before that had a plan of you when he left the camp in company with Alec somewhere about midnight though for certain reasons which he considered good he had not seen fit to take a single one of his comrades into his confidence the scout master believed that the only way for Alec to win his own game was to find the long lost mind and take possession of the same in the name of his father who had been the original discoverer of the load Scores of hungry prospectors besides cracker had done everything in their power to locate the mind though none had descended to his last unworthy methods of trying to torture Jerry Ross and son in the hope of profiting thereby as a claim of the original discoverer rested only on a scant foundation of course the man lucky enough to find the silver load again and take possession in the eye of the law he might choose to pay the widow something but even that was a matter resting solely upon his conscience that had a reason for carrying the only lantern belonging to the scouts and he hoped that if they were so lucky as to find that Alec's rude little chart told the truth they might utilize that means of illumination when entering the mind of course there was no telling when they could return to camp an arrangement had been with Alan so the day and night there would be a sign shown calculated to tell the absent ones whether the coast was clear or the lawyer and sheriff still hovered nearby waiting to entrap the rossan boy should he show up they had moved along for some time when Alec broke the silence by saying with considerable feeling in his voice it makes me glad to know you believed what I told you that about that business of my uncle if you could only meet up with him once I'm sure you'd know the tricky kind of man he is just from his looks and the smooth way he talks but no matter what they all do and say I'm just bound to carry my plans out my mother approves of what I am doing and she is thinking of me and praying all the time I'm up here trying to take dad's place don't mention it said that quickly of course we all believe every word you told us no matter whether we've met this rascally uncle of yours or not Archum Steppen did and I reckon he wasn't much impressed with him from the way he talked and as you belong to the scouts our first duty is to stand by you through thick and thin only as long as you believe in my word that's true return the other quickly even a scout has no business sticking up for a comrade when he knows the other is in the wrong but we believe in you Alec and if only you could find that mind I feel sure all of this funny business would stop once you had put in a claim with the proper witnesses and hurried to file it before the court nobody could steal it away and that's going to be just where the boy scouts can help you well we'll know more than we do now before a great many hours asserted the minor son unless this little map is all wrong and poor dad only believed he had found a rich load but remember he brought home specimens that were nearly pure silver and everyone who saw them said they beat the world for richness I can remember my dad saying that there were tons and tons without end of that same sort in his mind and then he was suddenly taken down sick and died with a secret untold all these long years when we've been poor and wanting many things they're that secret laying my hand oh hundreds of times and I never dreamed of it still accidents showed me the paper back of the glass in the little pocket mirror that dad had carried with him a long time they relapsed into silence again for a long time each busy with his thoughts Alec knew what few simple directions his rude chart carried he had gazed at it so many times that it was photographed on his mind and there had been no need for him to rip the seam of his coat and take the slip of faded paper out cracker had not dreamed how near the coveted clue had been to his hands at the time he closely held the boy and closely examined all his pockets it's lucky remarked that after fully an hour more it passed with both boys pushing forward steadily all the time over rugged ways that severely tried their abilities it's lucky I say that we are heading exactly away from the direction where that sheriff and your uncle must be coming from yes let's do that before we ever started out replied Alec you've been sizing up the region all day in camp and laying your plans if the chance ever came to try them out isn't that so Alec you never said truer words in your life that answered the other I found a pretty high rock on which I could perch and that gave me a chance to look over this region with those fine glasses of yours and I tell you now I was very thrilled when I recognized something that had marked on that little chart it seemed just as if I could hear his voice calling me from the grave and telling me I was doing the right thing to go ahead no matter who tried to stop me what sort of landmark was it you saw asked the other scout why you see he made a rough sketch of a rock that looks a whole lot like a human head Alec went on to say honestly well hello I remember noticing that very same rock the time I went up to take a look and see if I could get a glimpse of our hunter squad while about it I turned the glasses around to see if there were any sheep on the sides of the mountains to the south and it was right then I saw that outline of a face cut in the rock just like somebody had used a giant chisel and made it chin, forehead, all complete it startled me a little at first Alec I should guess it would that but think what it meant to me when I had seen it on Dad's little chart I knew that the entrance to his hidden mine lay almost in the shadow of that face I think he looked on it as the rock guardian to his silver load is that a fact ejaculated that partaking in a measure of the excitement that shook the frame of his companion well that's more than you seem fit to tell me before Alec and it's some interesting I own up I meant to tell you everything that believe me declared the other quickly and with some emotion after the fine way you and your chums rescued me from that shelf up on the face of the cliff and said you'd stand by me no matter what happened why I made up my mind that I would keep nothing back from you by tomorrow I expected to take the map out of the lining of my coat where it was sewn in by my mother's own dear hands so that nobody would ever think things had been disturbed at all and now I'm surely hoping that we'll both set eyes on Dad's mind before another dawn breaks for your sake Alec I hope that will come true you deserve all the luck in the world and that's what every one of our fellows say but only for this moonlight I'm afraid we'd have had a hard job of it coming all this distance because the way is mighty rough and both of us have stumbled lots of times as it is we might have used a lantern of course but that would have put it out of business later when we wanted it bad and besides it's flickering might have told our enemies where we were Alec felt a thrill of pleasure at the way the other used the word are why it was just as though the Silver Fox Patrol had adopted him into the troop and meant to make his cause their own for a boy who had seldom had a friend to give him even words of encouragement this was a glorious happening indeed he felt that it had been the luckiest hour of his whole life when in the midst of his bitter dejection left alone on that high and isolated rocky ledge he had discovered the strange movements of that fiery pencil that seemed to be making all sorts of extravagant figures and circles in the air which he knew stood for the means of communication between scouts let us work our way around this spur he said a while later after they had continued to advance further into the depths of the mountains I can guess what you're thinking Thad went on to remark you believe that we must even now be in the neighborhood of that rock face well I've tried to judge the distance and how we got along and it seems to me we ought to be nearly there what do you think Thad asked the other and from his manner it was evident that he laid considerable importance on the opinion of his companion just what you do which is that we must be getting close to where we saw that great head outline just as if some sculptor had chiseled it from the solid rock but even if we fail to find it Alec that may be because of the formation of the mountain besides this moonlight is awfully deceptive you know wait and we'll soon learn was a confident answer I sat there and looked for nearly an hour I guess I got every rock fixed in my mind well I've had a few of the same impressed on my knees and shins chuckled the scout master dryly but we've no need to complain because considering all the things we've had to fight against I reckon we've escaped pretty slick see anything yet Alec no I own that I don't but then that may come from lots of causes the other boy replied trying not to let his disappointment show in his manner of speech for he knew that that did not believe in display of weakness in scouts perhaps when we finished on a little further we may be able to glimpse the face again wait right here said that suddenly oh did you hear anything wouldn't it be too unbearably hard if we learn that someone perhaps that cruel prospector had been ahead of us and located to hidden mine he could hurry to enter his claim and my poor mother would not stand a ghost of a show was it a voice you heard that I didn't hear anything to bother me came the reply accompanied with a low chuckle I was only thinking how often we strain ourselves to see something away off when all we have to do is turn our eyes up and look instantly caught on to what his companion meant he bent his head back and gave utterance to a low cry of satisfaction well if that doesn't beat anything he ejaculated apparently highly pleased it's the head as sure as I live and towering right above us almost no wonder I couldn't see it looking away off and thinking at lay further on the landmark that set down in his little map and now to discover the crack in the wall hidden by the hanging vines where he followed a fox in just out of curiosity and discovered the richest silver load he ever knew about oh I'm just shaking all over with excitement and I sure hope my mother's thinking about me right now thinking and praying for me to succeed chapter 22 recording by Chuck Barges Bradenton, Florida chapter 23 of the Boy Scouts in the Rockies this is the LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org recording by Chuck Barges Bradenton, Florida the Boy Scouts in the Rockies by Herbert Carter chapter 23 a wolf brood in the way it was plain to the young scout master that Alec had studied his map carefully for after he had taken his bearings anew from the rocky head that towered almost above them the other was able to make a direct course to the foot of an adjoining cliff where the moonlight fell upon the chalky wall that saw first of all that there were strange markings across the face of this cliff or rather running up and down they consisted of several thicknesses and as the boys drew closer he discovered that what he suspected before was the truth and that these were caused by vines that ascended from various distances clinging tenaciously to the rock wall toward their base they seemed of unusual thickness and it was easily believable that one of these might conceal just as Alec had mentioned when speaking of the way his father discovered the entrance to Aladdin's cave of treasure the boys seemed to be counting these dark veins traversing the face of the cliff and when they came to the fourth one he stopped still there is that the vines he marked forth from the right he said in a low and trembling voice as though the intensity of his feelings almost overcame him yes I can see it reply the other steadily feeling that he might bolster up Alec's carriage in this trying time and we want to know right away whether it really does hide a gap in the rock come on Alec he led the way forward with the other half holding back feverish with impatience though Alec might be to know whether all his hopes were doomed to be shattered then and there or allowed to blossom forth into glorious buds of promise the poor boys suddenly felt a weakness come upon him only for his having such a staunch hearted chum in his elbow ready to take the lead there is no telling how long Alec Rosson might have hesitated there before that massive clinging vines afraid to take his carriage in both hands and push on to the goal but it was different with that he strode up to the vines and with one sweep drew them aside the act disclosed a fissure that was several feet in width at its base and running some distance up the wall although growing gradually smaller until finally it merged into the gloom that held sway aloft back of the screen of vines Alec gave a low cry of rapture it's here just as he said it would be in this map I carry he exclaimed as he clutched the arm of the scout master I hope I'm not dreaming I'll list that tell me I'm not, please fellow well replied the other laughing gently so as to convince Alec that he was perfectly cool and collected not to know what he talked about so far as it goes your map is absolutely correct chum Alec and I don't see any reason to doubt the rest of the story in my opinion we're going to discover something fine before a great many minutes go past what shall we do you see I'm so upset with it all that somehow I look to you to arrange things perhaps if I was alone and just had to depend on myself I'd do better but it's so kind of you to help me out and you're so capable of doing it all please fix it up as you think best alright then return that readily first of all I'll light our little gloom here or if we're going to poke along into that black hole I reckon we'll be wanting some sort of light to see by don't think I'd like to take a tumble down some precipice myself not to speak of running across a wild beast what makes you say that last thad demanded the other quickly do you get a scent of it too I had an idea I did and somehow it made me think of a menagerie hold up just a minute and we'll be able to see something as he spoke that struck a match which he applied to the wick of the lantern it was a good type of its kind and as soon as the wick had been properly adjusted no one could reasonably complain about the quality of the illumination produced this done the patrol leader hastened to lower the lantern so that he could examine the ground close to the bottom of the fissure and the rock learning of tracks alright is his first comment can you make them out and is it a bear hastalic almost unconsciously swinging his gun a little further to the front while his fingers shot the lock well no the marks differ very much from the tracks of a bear either a black or a cinnamon they look more like made by a dog's paws that replied but a dog wouldn't be up here you must mean it's a wolf that's what that allocation to observe that was a guess you hit the nail square on the head alec chuckled a scott master a wolf has been using this hole in the rock for a den and from all I can make out the tracks seem pretty fresh too and you think the old chap is in there right now do you ask the other I wouldn't like to say a reply to that but there's just one thing we've got to do and that is leave it to be so a wolf caught in a trap is some dangerous they tell me in a case this happens to be a mother wolf with a litter of welps she'll fight like everything leave me but we're going in that ain't we you won't let that stand us off after coming so far will you oh if there were a dozen wolves and every one of them ready to fight from the word go I just have to learn the truth before I left here for her sake I'd take any risk to know well I should say we were going in and right away at that we turned that taking a step forward I only thought I ought to put you on your guard so then in case we come on the thing you'd know what to expect have you got your gun all ready to shoot Alec? believe me yes while I don't want to brag still I've always called myself a pretty good shy even at a jumping wolf replied the other Alec knew that that did not mean to be deterred by any sort of ordinary difficulty Alec began to seem like himself being able to keep his feelings in restraint that was the influence of a cool determined comrade like the scout master such a firm collected spirit always exerts considerable influence over those with whom it comes in personal contact that held the lantern he preferred doing so as to not necessarily interfere more or less with his taking any sort of aim should the occasion suddenly arise whereby it became necessary for him to fire but then it was very important that thought that they keep the lantern intact and of course he had never been alongside Alec in action so it could not tell just what sort of coolness the other would display when a time of excitement arrived besides with a gun is possible to shoot without ever raising the weapon to the shoulder instinct takes a place of aim on such an occasion some people call it shooting from the hip that would be as good a designation for the method of pulling a hasty trigger as any other of course they kept close together this was rendered necessary by the narrowness of the fissure even had not their personal wishes in the matter forced the two lids to touch elbows they strained their eyes as they slowly advanced looking ahead most of the time yet not neglecting to also observe the walls as they passed and already thought it was beginning to notice a peculiarly marked streak here and there it had a rather dingy black look in which he strongly suspected might on investigation proved to be the outcrap of the marvelous ore of silver which further on had been revealed to the startled eyes of the prospect years ago that was causing him to blink and pinch himself under the belief that he must be only indulging in a maddening dream such as all of his class are visited with from time to time but before they could pay the slightest attention to these things it became absolutely necessary that they find out the truth about that wolf business and as they pushed steadily inward they were constantly on the alert for the first sign that would give warning of danger I heard something like a growl then whispered alex suddenly sure thing answered the other steadily and we ought to get a sight of the animal's eyes looking enough now look for twin fires that burn like phosphorus in the dark and hold your gun on them as soon as you sight them but don't shoot till I give the word unless the beast charges us ten seconds later another indifferent sound came to their strained hearing cubs whining as I live ejaculated that half under his breath then it's a she-wolf said the other I reckon it is the scoutmaster answered well what are you waiting for that alex demanded I suppose that makes it a tougher proposition but now I've come this far I've just got to go through to the end we will all right alex never fear I was just holding back to see if my eyes would get a little more accustomed to the dark over there but now we can go on again ready all the while are you yes indeed I am fat now I think I can see what you said I would meaning her yellow eyes glistening with fierce madness because there's nothing more ready to fight a hundred enemies than a mother wolf with welps steady forward we go slow but sure I'll write that I'm as cool as anything now all my excitement seems to have gone when there's real danger afoot remarked alex in an even voice that backed up his words I knew that would be so alex replied the other in a low tone but I can begin to see the figure of the wolf now can you yes and she's standing over something that seems to move the other replied that must be the cubs yes listen to them growl would you young as they are they understand that an enemy is near ten to one the hair on each little back is standing up like bristles right now it seems to me we've gone about as close as we ought to alex that came to a halt the light of the lantern showed them a dim half crouching figure ahead it was the mother wolf undoubtedly she might have found means of escape by retiring further into the place but nothing would induce her to abandon her welps and that found himself obliged to admire this value in the animal even though necessity compelled him to rid the country of pests by wiping out the entire brood of wolves welps as well as mother end of chapter 23 recording by chuck barges bradenton florida chapter 24 of the Boy Scouts in the Rockies this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org recording by chuck barges bradenton florida the Boy Scouts in the Rockies by Herbert Carter chapter 24 Alec comes into his own at last do you think we're close enough that? whispered Alec as they bent forward and strained their eyes to make out the dim gone figure that blocked all further progress in which they knew full well must be that mother wolf yes answered the other in the same cautious tone if we went any further on I'm afraid the beast would fly at us and in that case you know we'd have a harder time taking aim that had managed to set the lantern down on a level place where he hoped it would stand little danger of being knocked over in case there was anything in the nature of a fight between themselves and the wolf this allowed him the free use of both his arms which of course was a main idea he had in view when getting rid of the lantern of course that had never had any experience in thus entering the den the wolf with young ones all he knew about it he had heard from the lips of others or possibly read somehow just then it flashed through his mind how history told of Israel putnam afterwards a celebrated general in the continental army crawling into a wolf's den as a youth and fetching the animal out after a severe fight but so far as Thad could remember that was not a mother wolf and Israel had an easy time in their different conditions well, there was their intended quarry and with two guns to depend on surely they ought to make quick work of the beast the only difficulty about it was a treacherous light for the lantern flickered in the draught though until that critical moment Thad had paid no attention to this fact have you a bead on her head Alec? he whispered at the same time drawing his gun up to his shoulder and glancing along the double barrel for Thad was, of course, carrying his marlin with him at the time yes came the answer I'm going to count slowly and evenly when I say three let go Alec, I understand that all right hope we get her sure I hate to be bitten or clawed by such a mad creature here goes Alec one yes two a second passed and then came the word it was drowned in a tremendous deafening crash as both guns were discharged so closely together that it made one report Thad, of course, had a second barrel to hold in reserve he had more or less difficulty seeing through the thin curtain of powder smoke that followed the double discharge but at least no sprawling figure came flying at them with snapping jaws that were eager to rend and tear she's done for Thad exclaimed Alec joyfully as they heard a commotion beyond and could see something moving with short jerks like an animal kicking its last wait hold on till I pick up the lantern she may only be wounded and get you if you don't look out besides those cubs are partly grown and may be big enough to show fight Thad thus held his comrade back for a brief time until he could snatch up the light and take his place in the van which was really what he wanted to do as they approached the spot where a dark bundle lay they could still see something of a movement she isn't dead yet I'm afraid Thad cried Alec who had a single shot rifle and was there for without further means of defense until he could find time to slip another cartridge into the chamber oh I guess so answered Thad what you see moving must be the welps yes I can see one right now and he's a savage looking little beast on my word we'll have to knock him on the head Alec wolves must be killed wherever they are found nobody ever spares them Toby Smathers says there are no use at all and do a great amount of harm killing game and sheep and even weak cattle in the winter season Alec soon dispatched the growling cub with the stock of his gun and then looked around for more do you expect that this was the only welp he asked well no but the other must have escaped somehow replied Thad he doesn't matter to us though for the little beast will perish without a mother to supply it food but although Thad never dreamed that such a small thing could have any bearing on their fortunes it proved to be a fact as would be shown before a great while shall we go on now asked Alec after they had looked down on the big lean wolf that would never again hunt game and passes and valleys of the Rockies I'm anxious to see what lies beyond you know Thad well I don't blame you a bit either Alec in fact to tell the honest truth I'm feeling somewhat that way myself even if I haven't got the interest you have in the matter so let's go right along have you loaded up again I'm just finishing now Thad came the reply accordingly the forward progress was resumed Thad saw that they were rapidly drawing near what would likely prove to be a chamber of some size and he anticipated that whatever was to be found would greet them there just as he expected a couple of minutes later they passed out from the tunnel which was a continuation of the fissure they had entered and found themselves in a vaulted chamber it was of some height for the dim light of the lantern just reached the roof oh what a strange place exclaimed Alec looking around with something like awe and to think that this was that my father saw that time do you expect this can be the silver load Thad and he pointed to the wall where a broad streak of darkish ore cropped out Thad was no minor but he had been interested in geology at school and knew a little about the appearance of precious metals in their natural state I don't doubt it one little bit Alec he said with a quiver in his voice and see here you can tell that someone has pounded off pieces of the ore why? I can even note where the hammer struck and on the ground small bits still lie just as they fell years ago when your father found his way in here and made this grand discovery shake hands Alec I want to be the first to congratulate you on finding the hidden mine again you're a lucky boy let me tell you I'm glad for your sake Alec and for that dear little mother who is thinking of you right now no doubt thank you Thad replied the other with a break in his voice although it was joy that almost overcame him and what do I not owe to you and the chums of the silver fox patrol for if you hadn't come to my rescue when that scoundrel of a cracker had me caged on that horrible little shelf of rock up the cliff like it's not I'd be there still and ready to tell all to save my life I don't believe that cried the scoutmaster quickly I've seen enough of you to know you'd have died before you gave him what belonged only to your mother and the chances are you'd have found some way of getting down from there when it came to the worst yes fallen down most likely when they had made me so weak I couldn't look over without getting dizzy I don't know how it thrills me just to think that dad found this mine so long ago and that during these years it's remained hidden from all men just as if something might be holding it back until I grew old enough to come up here with that chart to discover it again why? I can almost believe that he is here right now and smiling his approval on my work I don't know I don't know I don't know I don't have similar approval on my work for he was a good dad I tell you They've brought around for a long time examining the walls of the chamber and following up the wide load of ridge ore until that inexperience as he was could estimate that it must prove to be a very valuable mine once placed in working condition here let's both of us fill our pockets with specimens of the ore the patrol leader remarked to think of once more seeking the exit, so strangely hidden from the eyes of any possible passers-by? Like is not, you'll want them, to convince some capitalist that you've got the goods, when making arrangements to sell a part of the mine, so as to get the money to work with. He asked, that sounds sensible, declared Alec. Dad did the same, and if he hadn't those specimens, nobody would ever have believed that he had found anything worthwhile. And now, do we start back to the fissure in the cliff, Dad? Might as well reply the other. And while we're about to, let's drag out the dead wolves, so as to throw them in some hole where they won't bother any more. I wonder if that other cub came back. I'd better make ready to knock it on the head, for it would die anyway, without a mother. Alec's voice had a catch in it, as he said this, and Dad understood. The boy was thinking of his own mother, and how their prayers for his safety must have been the means of raising up for him such staunch friends as the scouts of the Silver Fox Patrol. But when they came to the place where the animals lay, they saw nothing of the other partly grown wolf, so that, having his gun and lantern to manage, took charge of the offspring, while Alec tugged at the big she-wolf, and in this fashion they drew near the exit. Shhh! It was Dad who uttered this low hiss of warning. His action was prompted in addition for raising the lantern. He gave one sturdy puff, causing the flame to vanish. Utter darkness surrounded them. Alec had dropped the leg of the big wolf, and drew back the hammer of his rifle. Perhaps it was the other cub that, he whispered, as softly as the night creeps in and out of the trees, caressing each leaf as it passes on. No, it sounded more like voices came to equally lower reply. Voices, oh, do you mean men may be near us? Gasped Alec? A cold chill passing over him at the dreadful prospect of losing his long sought patrimony just after finding it. It sounded like that cracker. Listen and we'll soon know, bad one ought to say. And, crouching there, the two boys waited for a repetition of the suspicious sound. End of Chapter 24. Recording by Chuck Barges, Bradenton, Florida Chapter 25 of The Boy Scouts in the Rockies This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Recording by Chuck Barges, Bradenton, Florida The Boy Scouts in the Rockies by Herbert Carter Chapter 25 Close to Discovery When the sound of the voice came again, even Alec heard it plainly. Why, it seems so very near that his first thought was that the men must have found the entrance to the treasure cave and were pushing along the tunnel at that very moment. But on reflection Alec realized that this could not be so, for the voice came from somewhere in the open air. I just ain't a-going any further and that's a fact. Might as well rest up right here as keep on. I never was for coming back to spy on them air scouts, but two again one carried the day. So here we be, tired in body, hungry, and nigh about ready to drop. I say let's camp and wait till morning. That sticky bird, whispered that in the ear of his companion. Alec had had a load taken from his breast. Although the three men might be so close to the entrance of the mine that they could toss a stone into it, still it seemed only mere accident that brought them here, and not design, or a suspicion as to the truth. Another voice chimed in now, that of Cracker himself. Oh as for that, I'm about as leg-weary as you can be, and ready to rest up a bit. So waffles, start round and gather some tinder to start a blaze. This night air is some cool too. And say, I'm that hungry I could eat anything most. But with only one six-shot gun in the crowd, it's going to be hard times to provide grub I reckon. Then why'd you turn back? When we was all started for a place where we could get all the eats we wanted, with money to pay for them, grumbled dicky bird. Why? Any folk could see that, retorted the big prospector sternly. Here, I've been looking for this mine years and years, and it's got to be the one dream of my life to find the same. That boy knows. He's just been waiting till he's grown up big enough to start out. You saw how he acted, and said he'd died before he'd give up what belonged to his mother. That proves he's got the combination, either in his head, or somewhere about his clothes, which we couldn't find. Well, said the grumbler, what good is that some of going to do us, now that he's in with that party of scouts, who say they'll stand up for him right along? When got no show seems to me, cracker. We ain't, hey, replied the other distantly. Just because you can't see anything before your nose, you say they ain't nothin' doin'. Let me tell you, we never was nearer that same mine than we is now. Dad felt his companion give a sudden start. He himself was wondering what these strange words of the prospector might mean, though he could not believe that the other could really suspect the presence of that fissure back of the vines. As how? Maybe you wouldn't mind tellin' me, till he's up the pain in my legs, while waffles, he's a startin' that air of fire, Dicky Bird went on skeptically. Sure thing, answered the big man who controlled the party of mine seekers. If that boy does know the secret, he's going to open up while he's got them scouts to back him, ain't he? He'll want to feast his eyes on some of that same ritual that goes without saying. All right, let him, say I. We'll try and be close enough in hand to discover where the pesky entrance lies. And while they're hangin' on up here, it's us to streak it for town, and if I'll a claim, we'll not mind by description. First comer gets the persimmon this time. I ain't been in this line of business all my life without learnin' somethin'. Again did that feel his companion move restlessly. It was as though Alec felt a sudden fear oppress him unless this sly old thief should yet get ahead in entering a claim for the mine. The flicker of the kindling fire now began to show through the vines at the mouth of the opening. What if these men stayed there until morning? How were the boys to leave? Even when the moon stopped shining upon the face of the cliff, the light of the nearby fire would continue to light it up, so that they would not dare try and creep out. Such a movement, if seen or suspected by the campers, must arouse their curiosity and lead to an investigation. Then the only thing that could save the mine for Alec would be a hurried rush to town, in which they might be beaten by the others. It was not a pleasant thought, although of course, if necessary, the boys could stay there without any great amount of privation, the constant chance of discovery would bother them much more than anything else. Dicky Bird was still grumbling, it seemed. Things evidently did not please him at all, and only because the fury entertained for Cracker. The man might have deserted the expedition. I just don't like it around here, and that's what, they heard him say presently. It ain't the nicest place to go in either. Now, now what do you reckon that air rumbling noise was? We all heard a while ago. Waffles, he says it was thunder. But they ain't nary a cloud as big as my hand anywhere around. Sounded more like earthquake noise to me. I was in that shake down at Frisco, remember, and ain't likely to forget how it starts. If these here amountings begin to roll over on us, we'd be in a nice pickle now, eh? I tell you, I don't like it any too much. Drop that kind of talk, Dicky Bird, ordered the big prospector gruffly, and draw up closer to the fire here. You're cold, that's why. And things, they look kind of blue-like. Get warmed up, and you'll feel better. I've got a little dried meat in my knapsack, and we'll chew on that for a change. Good of you, cunnel, exclaimed the discontented one, whose mood probably had its inception in hunger after all. And don't be long about passing that same around, will ye? I'm that, and I've famished. I could eat Indian dog, though I never thought I'd ever come to that. The three prospectors sat down around the fire, and in order to overhear what they might say while they munched on the tough pemicin, that had crept closer to the vine screen. Something moved ahead of him, and he thought he saw the vines tremble, as though giving passage to some sort of body. Immediately afterwards, there was a shout from one of the three prospectors, and they could be seen scrambling hastily to their feet, showing every evidence of a arm. Watch that, coming this way, roared cracker. Say, looks like only a wolf cub ardor all declared, dicky bird, with a catch in his husky voice, showing plainly how startled he had been. Well, now that's just what it seems to be. Knock the critter on the head, one of you, and the big man dropped back again to his seat. It was Waffles who picked up a club, and jumping forward, hastened to wind up the earthly career of the motherless wolf wolf, though the savage little beast snarl furiously at his approach and showed fight. Now, I wonder what next remarked cracker, as he watched the other engaged in a regular fight with the cub, which would not give up the ghost as easily as Waffles had evidently anticipated. Indeed, the second man had to also arm himself with a club and put in a few vicious blows before the wolf welp was subdued. That's what comes to a man when he ain't got no gun, complained dicky bird, from which remark it might be taken for granted that if there was only one revolver in the crowd, which the scouts had allowed them to retain possession of, cracker had made sure to hold that. Oh, that was only a cub, and a wolf ain't anything to be scared of, remarked a big prospector, though he turned his head even while speaking, as though he fancied that he heard something moving in the bushes back of him, with visions of a red-eyed furious mother wolf coming to demand satisfaction for the killing of her offspring. Where do you reckon the critter Kim from now, demanded dicky bird? Oh, whispered Alec, as though something warned him the danger point was getting very close now. First thing I see, he was coming away from the rock yonder, remarked Waffles, pointing straight at the hanging vines that screened the fissure so completely. Then it looks like he might have come out of them vines, suggested cracker, carelessly. Reckon, now he did, replied the others. Go and take a look, Waffles, added the big man. If so be, we expect to sleep right here. We want to know if there is any wolf around. I ain't so fond of the ugly critters that I want to have one crawling all over me when I'm trying to get some rest. Look behind the vines, I say, Waffles, and make sure. Waffles did not seem any too anxious to obey. Possibly, if he had gripped some sort of firearm in his hand, he might not have shown the same timidity. Perhaps he too had an animosity towards ferocious and maddened wolves. And besides, it had been his hand that had given the finishing blow to that nasty little spitting cub, just now, and the mother wolf might have it in for him on that account. But then he feared the scorn of the big prospector even more than he did the possibility of danger from a she-wolf bereft of her welps. And so, rather hesitatingly to be sure, the man started towards a cliff, with the intention of lifting the screen of vines and peering behind the same. Of course, he would immediately learn of the fact that there was a fissure in the rock, and curiosity was apt to induce the men to make an attempt to explore the cavity, since they were all experienced miners and eager to discover signs of a find in some unexpected place. Closer came Waffles. He was now within feet of the vines, and indeed had one hand stretched out, as with the intention of clutching the mass of vegetation and drawing it aside, while the other gripped that stout cudgel, with which he expected to defend himself desperately. Should he be attacked? Alec was quivering with suspense, and Dad could easily understand that he must be handling his gun, as though attempted to discharge this, and frighten the man off. But that would be giving the seeker away, for these men were cunning, and after they had come to figure things out, they would arrive at something like the truth. If discovery were to be averted, other means must be employed in order to keep Waffles from raising that curtain, or at least daring to venture into the fissure as much as one foot. Finding the ear of his companion, Dad managed to whisper in it the few words, don't shout, do just what I do, we've got to scare him. And Alec pressed his arm, to let the scoutmaster know that he understood, even though the means to be employed might as yet be a mystery to him. End of Chapter 25 Recording by Chuck Barges, Bradenton, Florida