Kirby must have perceived the forms of the other men as soon as he attained the porch level, and his naturally disagreeable voice had a snarly ring.
"That you, Donaldson?
Have either of those women come back ?" "No," and I thought the sheriff's answer was barely cordial.

"We ain't seen nobody.

What did you learn down at the Landin' ?" "Nothing," savagely.

"Haven't found a damn trace, except that Haines hasn't been home since before dark; some nigger came for him then.

Is that girl safe inside ?" "Sure; just as you left her, but she won't talk.