One place dazzlingly lighted was evidently a dance-hall, but so densely jammed with humanity she could not distinguish the dancers.

A blare of music, however, proved the presence of a band within.

She felt the increasing pressure of her escort's hand.
"Can we get through ?" "Sure; some crowd, though.

'Tisn't often as bad as this; miners and punchers all paid off at once." He released her arm, and suddenly gripped the shoulder of a man passing.

He was the town marshal.
"Say, Dan, I reckon this is your busy night, but I wish you'd help me run this lady through as far as Timmons; this bunch of long-horns appear to be milling, and we're plum stalled." The man turned and stared at them.