There was a row of saddled horses on each side of the street, the full extent of the block.
I went into the big barroom of the Hope So.

I had never seen the place so full, nor had it ever seemed so quiet.

The whole long bar was lined by shirt-sleeved men, with hats slouched back and vests flapping wide.
Those who were not drinking were talking low.

Half a dozen tables held as many groups of dusty, motley men, some silent, others speaking and gesticulating, all earnest.
At first glance I did not see any one in whom I had especial interest.
The principal actors of my drama did not appear to be present.

However, there were rough characters more in evidence than at any other time I had visited the saloon.