"I wonder if they would let us take part in some of the games this
afternoon," inquired Tad.
"Why, of course they will. I'll speak to Mr. Jessup about it,"
answered Tom Phipps.
When the owner of the ranch passed them later on, Tom called him, and
after introducing the boys to him, told the rancher what they desired
to do.
Mr. Jessup looked the lads over critically.
"It's a pretty rough game, boys," he smiled. "But you look as if you
were able to take care of yourselves. Of course you may go in for the
fun if you want to. I'll tell the bunch."
"Thank you," said Tad, rising.
Mr. Jessup shouted to attract the attention of the noisy cowboys.
"Hey, fellows, we have a bunch of tenderfeet lads from the East with
us to-day. They're taking a trip over the mountains and they want to
know if they can join you in the fun this afternoon?"
"Sure!" roared the cowboys. "We'll give the tenderfeet all the fun
they want."
Tad smiled appreciatively.
"Don't let them disturb you," warned Tom. "They mean all right."
"Yes, sir; I understand cowmen pretty well. Have spent quite a little
time with them."
"I guess they are getting ready for something."
"Line up for the hurdle race!" shouted the ranch foreman, who was
acting as master of ceremonies. "Half mile down and back with a
hurdle every quarter!"
"Here's where you see some real fun," announced Mr.
Pages:
123
124
125
126
127
128
129
130
131
132
133
134
135
136
137
138
139
140
141
142
143
144
145
146
147