When about half-way across the flat, and perhaps just out of gun-shot sound of Sampson's house, I heard the rapid clatter of hoofs on the hard road.

I wheeled, expecting to see Morton and his man, and was ready to be chagrined at their coming openly instead of by the back way.

But this was only one man, and it was not Morton.

He seemed of big build, and he bestrode a fine bay horse.
There evidently was reason for hurry, too.

At about one hundred yards, when I recognized Snecker, complete astonishment possessed me.
Well it was I had ample time to get on my guard! In wheeling my horse I booted him so hard that he reared.