Chapter II.

As the “Rattlebury” vaulted along over the pot-holes, Scoot again became talkative.

“Remember Jim Butters, who went to school with us?” he asked.

“Perfectly,” responded Bill.

“Well,” said Scoot, “he's got a great sheeprun in these parts. The homestead, alone, which you will see from the road, cost something like five thousand pounds.”

“Good,” said Bill; “it should be worth seeing.”

At that moment they reached a part of the road that narrowed slightly and a car that had been following, came up close behind them.

“There's a car behind, tooting to get past,” said Bill.

Scoot gave a quick glance to the rear, and then, stepping on the gas, the “Rattlebury” gave a mighty leap and bounded forward with a speed that, to Bill's mind, made the passing scenery look like a half-cooked omelette.