Near the centre of this line of skirmishers a denser cloud was beginning to rise in spirals.

Brant, perceiving the largest group of men gathered just before him, rode straight toward them.

The crowd scattered slightly at his rapid approach, but promptly closed in again as he drew up his horse with taut rein.

He looked down into rough, bearded faces.

Clearly enough these men were in no fit spirit for peace-making.
"You damn fool!" roared one, hoarsely, his gun poised as if in threat, "what do you mean by riding us down like that?
Do you own this country ?" Brant flung himself from the saddle and strode in front of the fellow.
"I mean business.