For his thoughts were dwelling upon the sinister power that threatened to create confusion in the section.
He did not see the men in the lounging-room until he had taken several steps toward the desk; and then he glanced carelessly toward them.
Instantly his eyes glowed with recognition; he walked toward them.
"Howdy, Lawler," greeted one, extending a hand.

And, "howdy," was the word that passed the lips of the others as Lawler shook hands with them.
He called them all by name; but it was to the first man that he spoke, after the amenities had been concluded.
"I heard you were in town, Caldwell," he said.
Caldwell--a big man with a black beard, probing, intelligent eyes, and an aggressive chin, grinned grimly.
"Gary Warden tell you ?" he asked.
"No.

Warden didn't mention you." "Then it was Jay Simmons.

You ain't been anywhere else." "How do you know ?" Caldwell exchanged glances with his companions.

"I reckon we've been watchin' you, Lawler.