The leader, Hopalong, disappeared within and was followed by Mr.Trendley, bound and hobbled and tied to Red, the rear being brought up by Frenchy, whose rifle lolled easily in the crotch of his elbow.

The singing went on uninterrupted and the hum of voices between the selections remained unchanged.

Buck left the crowd around the fire and went into the cabin, where his voice was heard assenting to something.

Hopalong emerged and took a seat at the fire, sending two punchers to take his place.

He was joined by Frenchy and Red, the former very quiet.
In the center of a distant group were seven men who were not armed.
Their belts, half full of cartridges, supported empty holsters.