THE WOLF HUNTERS 



us, but I was somewhat reassured by the firm and 

 fearless demeanor of my comrades. 



As the jayhawkers approached it was seen that 

 all except the leader, "Cap" Tucker, carried 

 rifles, carbines, or shotguns in addition to their 

 pistols. All seemed to be well mounted, but 

 Tucker was particularly conspicuous by his fine 

 black horse. They followed the main road till 

 opposite the house where we were and then 

 turned and rode toward us at a walk. 



As soon as they had approached within easy 

 hail Tom took a few steps toward them and, 

 bringing his Sharp's rifle to a ready, sung out: 



"Halt!" 



Jack and I moved up in his rear and came to 

 the same position. 



The jayhawkers did not seem to be expecting 

 such a manoeuvre on our part and did not promptly 

 obey Tom's first command; but by the time he 

 had repeated "Halt!" in a louder tone they took 

 the hint, and Tucker quickly ordered his men to 

 stop. Turning to us, he called out in a tone of 

 indignant surprise: 



"What do you mean?" 



"Just what I say," replied Tom. "Ef you men 

 have any business with us, one of you and only 

 one can advance an' make it known. The rest'll 

 stand where they are." 



Turning and speaking a few words to his men, 

 Tucker then rode up to us. 



54 



