Now isn't he a sweet specimen to lead in the avenging of a supposed crime ?" Whatever else Colton might have failed in, he was a man of action.
Like a flash his gun flew to the level, but was instantly knocked aside by the grizzled old miner standing next him.
"None o' that, Ben," he growled, warningly.

"It don't never pay to shoot holes in Uncle Sam." Brant smiled.

He was not there just then to fight, but to secure delay until his own men could arrive, and to turn aside the fierce mob spirit if such a result was found possible.

He knew thoroughly the class of men with whom he dealt, and he understood likewise the wholesome power of his uniform.
"I really would enjoy accommodating you, Colton," he said, coolly, feeling much more at ease, "but I never fight personal battles with such fellows as you.

And now, you other men, it is about time you woke up to the facts of this matter.