"Then, after you are warmed up," exclaimed Bridge, "youcan step into this other chamber while the kid and I stripand dry our things, for there's no question but that weare wet enough."

At the suggestion the kid started for the door. "0h,no," he insisted; "it isn't worth while. I am almost drynow, and as soon as we get out on the road I'll be allright. I--I--I like wet clothes," he ended, lamely.

Bridge glanced at him questioningly; but did not urgethe matter. "Very well," he exclaimed; "you probably knowwhat you like; but as for me, I'm going to pull off everyrag and get good and dry."

The girl had already quitted the chamber and now TheKid turned and followed her. Bridge shook his head. "I'll bet the little beggar never was away from hismother before inside his life," he mused; "why the merethought of undressing in front of a strange man madehim turn yellow--and posing as The 0skaloosa Kid! Blessmy soul; but he's a humorist--a regular, natural bornone."