There is something about taking wealth from the earth that is clean.

There is something about it which seems honest in its very nature, something that builds big men in stature and in ruggedness, and it builds an honor which fights against any attempt to thwart it.
Taylor Bill was finding that honor now.

He seemed to straighten.

His teeth bit at his swollen, bruised lips.

He turned and faced the three persons before him.
"Take me down to the sheriff's office," he commanded.