"They've been working us," said Ted, coming up to where Stella and the
boys were standing beside Hatrack, which looked more sad and dejected
than ever.
"In what way?" asked Bud.
"This race is a gambling game to get the money away from the innocents,"
answered Ted. "They've had men going among the people from the country
and the cow-punchers, telling them that it is a put-up job on our part,
and that we're sure to win. In that way they have got a lot of people to
bet on Hatrack. I've a good mind to draw out of it altogether and spoil
their game."
"For fear the innocents will lose their money?" asked Bud.
"Yes. I don't want to be a party to robbing those fellows."
"Don't you worry. If you want to punish Norris and his friends, don't
interfere. Let it go on, I tell you. They'll be the worst-beaten lot o'
crooks that ever robbed a town."
"All right, Bud, if you say so."
It was now time for the race of the day, and Bud and Norris marked off
the course.
Ben was appointed judge, with a large man, apparently a stranger in the
town, who was chosen by Norris, and the two selected a third.
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