"May I ask if Major McDonald has returned to the post ?" "McDonald?
No," he glanced at his watch.

"He had orders to go east to Ripley on the stage.

That was due out about an hour ago." "To Ripley?
By stage ?" the Sergeant repeated the words, dazed.
"Why--why, what has become of Miss McDonald ?" The officer smiled, shaking his head.
"I 'm sure I don't know, my man," he returned carelessly.

"Come back with Barrett and his lady-love, likely.

Why ?" suddenly interested by the expression on the other's face.