He cringed under Lawler's contemptuous tone.

And then he became aware that Lawler was speaking again.
"I'm giving you another chance.

I'm letting you off, clean.

For Ruth's sake.
"Look here, Hamlin!" Hamlin's chin was caught in an iron grasp and he found himself looking into the terrible eyes.

He saw grim pity in the eyes and he shuddered.
"Ruth knows you're stealing cattle.