But be that as it may, I 'll pull you
down, Biff Farnham, not in any revenge for wrong done me, but to save a
woman whom you know. I 'll do it, damn you, though it cost me my life!"
The sheriff's iron hand fell in restraint upon his shoulder, the burly
body interposed between them.
"You're all right," Hayes said quietly, his eyes pleasantly interested.
"You 've been squar' with me, young fellow, an' I 'm goin' ter be
squar' with you. You kin bet on that. They 'll give you a chance down
below to fight out your quarrel with Farnham."
Winston, his quick rage as instantly fading, drew one hand across his
face, the real danger of his present situation flowing back suddenly to
mind.
"Where do you mean to take us?" he questioned.
"San Juan."
"Right away?"
"Wal, 'bout as soon as we kin git you back ter whar the hosses are,
yonder."
"You promise us protection from that 'Independence' outfit?"
The sheriff nodded decisively.
"Never lost no prisoner yet to a mob," he replied confidently.
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