A coyote slunk past him on a time-destroying lope and an owl hooted at the foolishness of men.

He camped at the base of a cottonwood and at daylight took up his journey after a scanty breakfast from his saddle-bags.
Shortly before noon he came in sight of the lake and looked for his friend.

He had just ridden around a clump of cotton-woods when he was hit on the back with something large and soft.

Turning in his saddle, with his Colts ready, he saw Red sitting on a stump, a huge grin extending over his features.

He replaced the weapon, said something about fools and dismounted, kicking aside the bundle of grass his friend had thrown.
"Yore shore easy," remarked Red, tossing aside his cold cigarette.
"Suppose I was Trendley, where would yu be now ?" "Diggin' a hole to put yu in," pleasantly replied Hopalong.