He did not go at once to the cabin, but always treading carefully where imprints would be lightest, he made a further inspection of the corral.
The wind had done its work there, and hoofprints were practically obliterated.

Satisfied, he returned to the cabin and sat down on the bench beside the door, where he could watch the trail while he waited.
The telephone rang.

The man untied the door, went in, and answered it hoarsely.

Everything was all right, he reported.

He had ridden the fence and tightened one or two loose wires.