Part 44 (1/2)

CHAPTER XXIX

A MAN'S COUNTRY

”As for that,” said John Corliss, gazing out across the mesa, ”Loring and I shook hands--over the line fence. That's settled.”

Sundown had just dismounted. He stood holding the reins of his old saddle-horse ”Pill.” He had ridden to the Concho to get his monthly pay. ”And pore leetle ole Fernando--he's gone,” said Sundown. ”That's jest the difference between _one_ fella doin' what he thinks is right and a _bunch_ of fellas shootin' up themselves. The one fella gets it every time. The bunch, bein' so many of 'em, gets off. Mebby that's law, but it ain't fair.”

”There's a difference, Sun. A fight in the open and downing a man from ambush--two mighty different things.”

”Well, mebby. But I'm feelin' sad for that leetle Fernando jest the same.--That Billy's new house?”

”Yes. They expect to get settled this month.”

”Gee Gos.h.!.+ I been so busy I missed a bunch of days. Reckon I got to rustle up somethin' for a weddin' present. I know, be Gos.h.!.+ I'll send 'em me picture. Billy was kind of stuck on it.”

”Good idea, Sun. But I guess you'll miss it yourself.”

”I dunno. Neeter ain't lookin' at it as much as she used to. She's busy lookin' after leetle Bill--and me. 'Course I can get another one took most any time.”

”Make it two and give me one,” said Corliss.

”You ain't jos.h.i.+n'?”

”No. I'll hang it in the office.”

”Then she gets took--immediate.”

Chance, who stood watching the two men, rose and wagged his tail.

Chance never failed to recognize that note in his master's voice. It meant that his master was pleased, enthusiastic, happy, and Chance, loyal companion, found his happiness in that of his friends.

”Well,” said Sundown, ”I reckon I got to be joggin'. Thanks for the check.”

Corliss waved his hand. ”I'll step over to the gate with you. Thought perhaps you'd stay and see Billy.”

”Nope. I ain't feelin' like meetin' folks today. Don' know why.

Sky's clear and fine, but inside I feel like it was goin' to rain.