He knew all those ranches lying south on the Canadian, and was aware that this was no out-station.

No cattle ever came across that sandy desert unless driven by rustlers, and no honest purpose could account for this isolated hut.
There had been frequent robberies along the trail, and he had overheard tales of mysterious disappearances in both Larned and Carson City.

Could it be that he had now, accidentally, stumbled upon the rendezvous of the gang?
He was not a man easily startled, but this thought sent his heart beating.

He knew enough to realize what such a gang would naturally consist of--deserters, outlaws, rustlers; both Indians and whites, no doubt, combined under some desperate leadership.

Gazing into the girl's questioning eyes he could scarcely refrain from blurting out all he suspected.