"You mean it is a warning to keep away from Red Rock ranch?" asked Sam.
"I do. And I think that fellow was on guard, Just as the old man was on that other road."
"If he was, why didn't he stop us, then?"
"Because we took him unawares, and because he saw that we were too many for him."
"By Jinks, Dick, I think you are right!" cried Tom. "And, if you are, it is more than likely that he has gone to the ranch to warn Sack Todd."
"Exactly, and that means warning Dan Baxter, too. I tell you, boys, there is something behind all this, and I, for one, am in favor of doing our best to solve the mystery."
"I am with you."
"So am I."
"And I, Dick! You can count on me!"
"Vell, ton't I vos here, too?" came from Hans.
"But we must go slow," said Tom. "It would be nonsense to rush forward. We'd be certain to walk into some trap."
The matter was talked over, and it was decided to leave the vicinity of the shack before making an extended halt. They did not know but what the strange man would come back accompanied by Sack Todd, Dan Baxter and others equally willing to do them harm.
