He told the housekeeper to tell Jerry he was called away and would be back next day.
Putting money and a revolver in his pocket, he started out, but hesitated and halted.

He happened to think that he was a poor shot with a revolver and a fine one with a rifle.

So he went back for his rifle, a small high-power, repeating gun that he could take apart and hide under his coat.

When he reached the porch the official glanced from the weapon to Kurt's face and said, with a flash of spirit: "It appears that you are in earnest!" "I am.

Something told me to take this," responded Kurt, as he dismounted the rifle.