Now kin I cum on ?" Murphy reluctantly lowered his Colt, every movement betraying annoyance.

"I reckon.

But I 'd--a damn sight--rather risk it--alone." The stranger came forward without further hesitation.

The night was far too dark to reveal features, but to Murphy's strained vision the newcomer appeared somewhat slender in build, and of good height.
"Whar'd--ye say ye--wus bound ?" "Mouth o' the Powder.

We kin ride tergether fer a night or two." "Ye kin--do as ye--please, but--I ain't a huntin'-- no company,--an' I'm a'-- goin' 'cross now." He advanced a few strides toward his horses.