Possibility of an actual consummation of her marriage to Jack Belllounds did not lodge for an instant in Wade's consciousness.

In Moore's case, however, the present moment seemed critical.

What should he tell Moore--what should he conceal from him?
"Son, come in here," he called to the cowboy.
"Pard, it looks--bad!" said Moore, brokenly.
Wade looked at the tragic face and cursed under his breath.
"Buck up! It's never as bad as it looks.

Anyway, we _know_ now what to expect, an' that's well." Moore shook his head.

"Couldn't you see how like steel Collie was ?...
But I'm on to you, Wade.