The streets of Sheridan were not over pleasant at night.
"Only hack in town is somewhere else, Miss," he explained briefly.

"I reckon you and I will have to hoof it." He felt the grip of her fingers on his sleeve.
"The boys are a little noisy, but it's just their way--don't mean anything--you hang on to me, an' keep the veil down--we 'll be there in the shake of a dog's tail." He helped her over the muddy crossing, and as they reached a stretch of board walk, began expatiating on the various places lining the way.
"That's the 'Mammoth' over there,--dance hall back of it--biggest thing west of the Missouri--three men killed there last week--what for?
Oh, they got too fresh--that's the 'Casino,' and the one beyond is 'Pony Joe's Place'-- cut his leg off since I've been here--fight over a girl.
Ain't there any stores ?--sure; they're farther back--you see the saloons got in first--that's 'Sheeny Mike's' gambling joint you're looking at--like to go over and see 'em play?
All right, just thought I'd ask you--it's early anyhow, and things wouldn't be goin' very lively yet.
Say, there, you red head, what are you trying to do ?" The fellow had lurched out of the crowd in such a manner as to brush partially aside the girl's veil, permitting the glare of "Sheeny Mike's" lights to fall full upon her revealed face.

It was accomplished so openly as to appear planned, but before he could reel away again, Fairbain struck out, and the man went down.

With an oath he was on his feet, and Hope cowered back against her protector.

Each man had weapons drawn, the crowd scurrying madly to keep out of the line of fire, when, with a stride, a new figure stepped quietly in between them.