But that time had gone forever, both in intent on Sampson's part and in possibility.

Wright, like the great majority of evil and unrestrained men on the border, had reached a point where influence was futile.

Reason had degenerated.

He saw only himself.
"But, George, Diane's the one person on earth who must never know I'm a rustler, a thief, a red-handed ruler of the worst gang on the border," replied Sampson impressively.
George bowed his head at that, as if the significance had just occurred to him.

But he was not long at a loss.