The boys' coming caused a moment's irresolution in the crowd.
Mrs.Steele saw her chance, and fear left her.

She boldly forced her way to where Injun and Whitey stood, and turned to her husband, who was foremost among the lynchers.
"Gil!" she cried, pointing at Whitey.

"You ain't goin' to kill this boy?
He saved your life!" She saw a change come in her husband's face and was quick to follow up her advantage.

She grasped Injun by the arm.

"And this Injun," she called.