That crime had been committed--either murder or abduction--was evident; the two had not dropped thus suddenly out of sight without cause.

Nor did it seem possible they could have been whisked away without leaving some trace behind.

The town was accustomed to murder and sudden death; the echo of a revolver shot would create no panic, awaken no alarm, and yet the place was small, and there was little likelihood that any deed of violence would pass long unnoticed.

With a few words of instruction, and hasty descriptions of both Dupont and Connors, Hamlin sent his men down the straggling street to drag out the occupants of shack and tent, riding himself to the blazing front of the "Poodle Dog." Late as the hour was, the saloon and the gambling rooms above were all crowded.

Hamlin plunged into the mass of men, pressing passage back and forth, his eyes searching the faces, while he eagerly questioned those with whom he had any acquaintance.