The mystery of it remained unsolved, but this woman knew who had shot Gaskins; knew, and had every reason to guard the secret.

He felt her eyes anxiously searching his face, and laughed a little bitterly.
"You perceive, madam," he went on, encouraged by her silence, "I am not now exactly the same unsuspecting youth with whom you played so easily years ago.

I have learned some of life's lessons since; among them how to fight fire with fire.

It is a trick of the plains.

Do you still consider it necessary for your happiness to remain the guest of the McDonalds ?" She straightened up, turning her eyes away.
"Probably not for long, but it is no threat of yours which influences me.