Will you dig the grave here and now as I command you, or will you prefer that the next passer-by should find you on this spot with a bullet hole through your head ?" Even through the semi-darkness old Adam could see the stranger's eyes gleaming pitilessly upon him as he uttered the words, and he realized that if he refused he might expect no mercy at this man's hands.
"Your answer!" said Halloran, pressing the messenger of death still closer to the throbbing brow of the now thoroughly terrified old grave digger.
"Y--es," stammered old Adam.
"That is well," declared Halloran, removing the weapon.

"Begin right here by the roadside.

This is as good a spot as any.

You need not make it the regulation depth--three feet or such a matter will answer.

Begin without delay.