Page:Edward Ellis--Alden the Pony Express Rider.djvu/59

 tumbling into the rear of the vehicles, where their merry shouts were smothered by the canvas covers which hid them from sight.

Alden and Jethro had tramped for two hours and were again in the saddle, their horses on a walk. Alden was surprised when, as they gathered up the reins, his companion heaved a profound sigh. He did not speak, and a few minutes later repeated the inspiration. Glancing across, the perplexed youth asked:

“What’s the matter with you, Jeth?”

“I wish I could tell,” he answered, with a more prodigious intake than before.

“What’s to hinder you?” said the other, not a little amused.

“I’m carryin’ an orful secret.”

“Seems to weigh you down a good deal; do you wish to tell me?”

“Dat’s what I oughter do, but I hain’t got de courage, Al; it’s been on my mind two, free times, and I started in to let you know, but I’se afeard.”

“Afraid of what?”

“Ob you.”

It was hard for Alden to restrain his laughter. He had not the remotest idea of what