But Lawler did not even think of Shorty.

His brain was upon the work that was before him, his thoughts were definitely centered upon Antrim and the Circle L men that Antrim and his men had killed.

It was concentration of a sinister character that had seized Lawler, and in it was a single purpose, a single determination--to kill Antrim.
He saw the cabin as he crossed the level--a patch of bare, sandy earth surrounding it; and the other buildings, with no sign of life near them.
His gaze swept the corral, and he saw no horse in it.

As he guided Red King toward the cabin he peered vainly for sight of Antrim's horse.
Not a living thing was in sight.

The buildings were silent, seemingly deserted.