"I'd
do my share of the work, and pay for my board. I might not be the best
of company, for I'm tired. Very tired."
His massive head drooped as he spoke and his thin fine lips betrayed a
pain and weariness that even the fitful light of the fire could not
conceal. There was a silence for a moment, then a burro screamed, and
Mackay got to his feet.
"There's Mamie burro making trouble again. Come and help me catch her,
Curly."
Enoch sat quietly waiting while a low voiced colloquy that did not seem
related to the obstreperous Mamie went on in the shadow beyond the
rocks. Then the two men came back.
"All right, Smith," said Mack. "We're willing to give it a try. A
camping trip's like marriage, you know, terrible trying on the nerves.
So if we don't get on together, it's understood you'll turn back, eh?"
"Yes," Enoch nodded.
"All right! We'll charge you a dollar and a half a day for yourself
and your horse. We're to share and share alike in the work."
"I'm exceedingly grateful!" exclaimed Enoch.
"All right! We hope you'll get rested," said Curly. "And I advise you
to begin now. Have you been sleeping well? How long have you been
out?"
"Three nights. I've slept rottenly."
"I thought so.
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