In his pleasure over the success of his idea, even Hilma for the moment was forgotten.
"And, now," murmured Annixter, "I'll give that dance in it.

I'll make 'em sit up." It occurred to him that he had better set about sending out the invitations for the affair.

He was puzzled to decide just how the thing should be managed, and resolved that it might be as well to consult Magnus and Mrs.Derrick.
"I want to talk of this telegram of the goat's with Magnus, anyhow," he said to himself reflectively, "and there's things I got to do in Bonneville before the first of the month." He turned about on his heel with a last look at the barn, and set off toward the stable.

He had decided to have his horse saddled and ride over to Bonneville by way of Los Muertos.

He would make a day of it, would see Magnus, Harran, old Broderson and some of the business men of Bonneville.
A few moments later, he rode out of the barn and the stable-yard, a fresh cigar between his teeth, his hat slanted over his face against the rays of the sun, as yet low in the east.