He studied long over what he wrote, pursing his lips and scratching his head.

But not once did he look up at Lawler.
"Wrestling with a mighty problem, Jordan ?" finally asked Lawler, his patience strained, his voice in a slow drawl.
The bald man started and glanced up.

Instantly, he reddened and looked down again, leaving Lawler to wonder how it was that every official with whom he had conversed within the past few days had exhibited embarrassment.
"Excuse me, Lawler," said Jordan; "I didn't know you was here.

I'll be with you in a second--just as soon as I check up this tally.

Caldwell drove in here not more'n two hours ago, an' I ain't got his tally straightened up yet." Lawler turned his back to Warden and gazed out through the open doorway.
On the siding was a long string of empty box cars, plainly awaiting Caldwell's cattle.
After a glance at the cars, Lawler wheeled and faced Warden, who was still gazing meditatively downward.
"I see that cars came quickly enough when you ordered them, Warden," he said.
Warden raised his head slowly and gazed straight at Lawler, his eyes gleaming challengingly.
"Yes," he said: "Simmons finally unearthed enough to take care of Caldwell's cattle.