Buffalo Bill was liking the young fellow more and more. Nevertheless, he was not overlooking the powerful influence Hattie Perry must have had with Nate Dunbar. “You’re all right, Nate,” said the scout. “The situation on the Brazos has reached a climax, and everything depends on the way you stack up from this on.” “But we can’t do what you thought of while we were riding from Red Steve’s.” “You mean that about the sky pilot, and eliminating Miss Perry as a factor in the trouble? That is still the work we must do, Nate, so it follows that our next step must be to find Miss Perry.” “Why should those infernal scoundrels carry her off?” cried the cowboy. “That was done, I believe, simply to frighten you and Perry, and force Perry to agree to Benner’s proposals.” “Perry never’d agree!” “At any rate, I’m sure the young lady has suffered no harm, and that she will be considerately treated. We must rescue her. With my pards to help, I’m sure we can accomplish that part of it.” “But suppose Perry delays getting back? We ought to be doing something for Hattie right now.” The scout pointed to the “Haste and Waste” motto on the wall. “Keep that prominently before your eyes, Dunbar,” admonished the scout. “If we get in too much of a hurry we may spoil everything. If Perry doesn’t come within an hour or two, I’ll send you to Hackamore after my pards. They ought to be here by sunup.” “Then what’s to be done?” “Why, then we’ll ride to Benner’s ranch.” “Hattie won’t be there. He wouldn’t take Hattie there.” “Of course he wouldn’t, but if he has had anything to do with spiriting the girl away from this cabin, we’ll find out about it and get him to tell us where she is.” Dunbar shook his head doubtfully. “If you and your pards go to Benner’s ranch, Buffalo Bill,” said he, “you’ll be right in the midst of the whole gang. There’s enough of the outfit to smother you and your pards ten deep.” The scout smiled. “I reckon you don’t know much about my pards,” said he. At that moment the beat of horse’s hoofs were heard, swiftly approaching. Both the scout and the cowboy jumped to their feet. “Perry!” exclaimed the scout, starting for the door. As he stood in front of the cabin, the lamplight pouring through the open door at his back, a horseman drew to a halt. “Well, by gorry!” the rider exclaimed, in a flutter of astonishment. “Have I got the blind staggers? Pard Cody, is that you?” The surprise was mutual. “There’s no mistake, Wild Bill,” answered the scout, as pleased as he was surprised. “Get down and tell me what brings you here.” CHAPTER III. FLUSH DAYS IN TEXAS.