I'll have a saddle-bag packed for you and the horse ready." With that he turned on his heel and went into the house, leaving Duane to revolve in his mind his singular speech.

Buck wondered presently if he shared his uncle's opinion of the result of a meeting between himself and Bain.

His thoughts were vague.

But on the instant of final decision, when he had settled with himself that he would meet Bain, such a storm of passion assailed him that he felt as if he was being shaken with ague.

Yet it was all internal, inside his breast, for his hand was like a rock and, for all he could see, not a muscle about him quivered.