Of all Wade’s wild cowboy riders the half-breed was the wildest. He had all the Indian’s matchless horsemanship and all the range rider’s daredevil boldness. Wade expected a breakneck pace which even he would be unable to hold, though he had in Pen the swiftest horse on the range. He expected to have to caution the reckless Hicks.
In this calculation Wade was deceived. The half-breed at the very outset displayed a scrutiny of the ground ahead and consideration for a horse. Nevertheless he rode like the wind, with the cowboys strung out behind.
“For once Hicks is riding careful,” called Wade to Jerry who rode beside him.
“Shore. He ain’t gonna miss gettin’ a shot at Steele. He’s Bilt’s pard, you know.”
“Aha! So that’s it.” Wade had been giving the half-breed credit for thought of the gr
