That is east from here. But
Mr. Hampton had his geologists in through this region, and they
reported the prospects for finding oil favorable. Then the
Independents came in quietly and took up leases, and Mr. Hampton
followed to prepare for development of the field."
"Yes, that's the way of it," agreed Jack.
"Say, Jack," said Frank, "I'm hungry as a hunter. If we are going to
get dinner at your camp, let's move along. How far is it, by the way?"
"Ten miles," said Jack, leading the way toward the automobile with its
dozing Mexican at the wheel. "Come on."
The others followed and were about to climb into the automobile when
the rapid hoofbeats of a galloping horse ringing on the sun-baked clay
of the street drew their attention, and they paused.
"Why, it's Gabby Pete," said Jack in surprise, moving forward a step
as the rider reined up his horse so sharply that it reared and slid on
braced hind legs. The animal came to rest so close to him that Jack
was forced to give back a step, and it stood there snorting and
blowing.
An oldish man of tremendous girth, but who sat his horse easily
despite his size, grinned down at Jack. He was white-haired and under
the brim of his sombrero little eyes twinkled genially and shrewdly in
a round, fat face.
Pages:
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
61
62
63
64
65
66