Page:Tomlinson--The rider of the black horse.djvu/94

78 decided to accept the offer of hospitality which was so cordially given. It was evident that the women were to be trusted, and his own weariness, as well as the exhaustion of his horse, provided more than an excuse for accepting what had been so warmly offered.

"That's right," said the elder woman heartily, as Robert prepared to follow; and in a brief time all three arrived in front of the little house.

"I 'll take care of your horse for you," said the girl quickly, as they halted for a moment.

"Thank you," replied Robert, with a laugh. "I'm not accustomed to such attentions from the ladies. If you will show me where to put him, I 'll take him there."

"We 'll show you;" and both women led the way toward the little barn which could be seen on the border of the clearing. Robert followed without a word, but as they approached the place he was surprised when he was led directly past the barn into the woods beyond.

"It's safer," explained the girl quietly. "We haven't a horse left on the place—thanks to the Thirteen, or some other equally good men. If we put your horse out in the woods, it may be that he won't be found, if we chance to have any other visitors to-night."