He knew the risk he took was great, but it was evident to him that if his identity escaped detection at first sight, use would do the rest, and while he had worn a short-pointed beard on the Western prairie, he was cleanly shaven now.
The lad stood quite still a moment staring at him, and Winston returning his gaze steadily felt his pulses throb.
"Well, trooper, what has brought you here ?" he said.
"Homestead visitation, sir," said the lad, who had a pleasant English voice.

"Mr.Courthorne, I presume--accept my regrets if I stared too hard at you--but for a moment you reminded me of a man I knew.

They've changed us round lately, and I'm from the Alberta squadron just sent into this district.

It was late when I rode in, and your people were kind enough to put me up." Winston laughed.

"I have been taken for another man before.