In response to the suggestion the huge man, with many groans and protestations, finally entered the stream, and as the depth of the water increased he held high above his head the two pistols with which he was armed. The sight was ludicrous and Reuben laughed heartily. As the man came nearer the bank on which he was standing Reuben’s heart almost misgave him for the invitation he had given. Nor was it long before Reuben had greater cause for regret that he had been willing for the huge Rat to join him. CHAPTER XXVII—THE THEFT The dripping body of the huge trapper when he stepped at last upon the shore made Reuben once more aware of the immense size and strength of the man. As he recalled the contest between Kit Carson and the giant before him, and was reminded of the slight, almost delicate form of the scout, he was amazed at the courage of the latter in accepting the challenge of the braggart. At present, however, there did not appear to be anything to fear from Rat, and it was manifest that his thoughts were mostly concerned with his own condition. The cold water perhaps had cooled any heated tendencies he may have had. At all events, he was subdued in his manner and even tried to laugh at the sight he declared he must present. “I’ll help you, lad,” said Rat, at the same time stooping and assuming a part of the burden. “You’re going back to camp now, aren’t you?” “Yes.” “I’ll go along with you.” Reuben glanced in fresh surprise at the man, for the camp of the trappers, and especially Kit Carson, he was positive Rat had no real desire to see. Indeed, he wondered at the temerity of the man in daring to return, knowing as he did the feeling against him when he had fled from the place. “I suppose you’ve got the same trappers as ever, haven’t you, Reuben?” inquired Rat. “Yes,” replied Reuben in a low voice. “Kit Carson still at the head?” “Yes.” “He’s a great little Kit. He was too quick for me,” said Rat, striving to laugh as he spoke. “He always is,” suggested Reuben. “That don’t mean that he always will be, does it?” “I think it does.” “He certainly has a good friend in you, Reuben. He makes every one bow down to him.” “If they do, it’s not because he makes them, but because they want to.” “It’s all the same, it’s all the same.” Silence followed, and steadily Reuben led the way back to the place where he had left his comrades. Occasionally he glanced keenly at his companion, but he was unable to discover any signs of fear or even of shame. Apparently Rat was returning to the trappers as a matter of course and expecting that he would be received in the same spirit with which he came. And yet in spite of his manner Reuben was keenly suspicious of the huge boaster. The very fact that he had suffered at the hands of the boyish scout doubtless had aroused a feeling of resentment which could not be quieted until Rat had obtained satisfaction.