His was the epitome of a successful rancher, sure in his opinions, speaking proudly and unreflectingly of his own son, and being just to another man.
Wade bowed and backed out of the door.

"Sure that's what I'd reckon you'd say, Belllounds....

I'll drop in on you if I find any sign in the woods.

Good night." Columbine went with him to the end of the porch, as she had used to go before the shadow had settled over the lives of the Belllounds.
"Ben, you're up to something," she whispered, seizing him with hands that shook.
"Sure.

But don't you worry," he whispered back.
"Do they hint that Wilson is a rustler ?" she asked, intensely.
"Somebody did, Collie." "How vile! Who?
Who ?" she demanded, and her face gleamed white.
"Hush, lass! You're all a-tremble," he returned, warily, and he held her hands.
"Ben, they're pressing me hard to set another wedding-day.