And then we'll forget it." He stepped back, releasing her hand, for he had heard a commotion outside--Jimmy's voice, high-pitched, carrying a note of savage triumph; and the voices of the other pupils in a shrill murmur, coming closer.
Ruth started, clenched her hands and backed to the desk, where she stood, her eyes wide, her breath coming fast, a picture of apprehension and dismay.
Her big eyes went to Lawler, who grinned faintly at her.
"I reckon Jimmy's coming with his 'paw,'" he said.
A big man, massive, muscular, with heavy shoulders that seemed to droop with the weight of his great, long arms, stepped into the room.
The man's head was big, like the rest of him, and covered with shaggy, tawny hair which seemed to bristle with truculence.

His chin was huge, square, and sagging a little, his lips were in a hideous pout; and his eyes, small, black, with heavy brows that made them seem deep-set, were glittering with passion.
He paused just inside the door, seemingly to accustom his eyes to the subdued light of the room.

His long arms were hanging at his sides, the fingers clenching and unclenching close to the heavy pistols he wore--one at each hip.

As he stood there, blinking his eyes at Ruth and Lawler, Lawler spoke.
"Come in, Singleton," he said.
Ruth was still standing at the desk.

Her arms were now outstretched along it, her hands gripping its edge.