Tad and Chunky, one bearing a rifle, the other a handsome saddle, were
proud boys when they rode home with Tom Phipps and their companions
that night. The Pony Rider Boys had carried away the real prizes of
the cowboy meet. Chunky had few words. He was so filled with
self-importance that he could only look his gratification. When part
way home, however, he rode up beside Tad, and leaning from his saddle,
whispered, "I didn't fall off, did I?"
The news of triumph spread about the mining camp quickly. When the
miners learned that Cravath's pony and his man had been defeated, they
shouted for joy. From that moment the Pony Rider Boys became persons
of consequence in the Red Star mining camp.
It was suggested that evening that the whole party spend the next day
in the mine. Tom Phipps had permission to devote the day to them if
they wished to go underground.
"That will be fine," cried Tad, to which sentiment all the rest
subscribed, except Stacy.
"I'm going hunting," he announced.
"Hunting? What for?" questioned Ned.
"Anything I can see."
"Then, I'm glad we are all going to spend the day underground. It
will be about the only safe place around this part of the country."
"Remember, Chunky, that's a powerful weapon of yours and long range,"
warned Tad.
"And remember to watch out that you don't fall off your new saddle and
break your neck," retorted the fat boy.
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