His eyes met Slim's.
"Where is Quade ?" he asked casually.
Barker shrugged his shoulders.
"Busy to-night," he answered shortly.

"Want to see him ?" "No, not particularly.

Only--I don't want him to hold a grudge." Barker replaced the box in the case and turned away.

After lighting a cigar Aldous went out.

He was sure that Quade had not returned from the river.
Was he lying in wait for him near the cabin?
The thought sent a sudden thrill through him.