There was also a boast that no one had ever escaped them which, if true, was in many cases unfortunate.

Mr.Slim Travennes, with whom Mr.Cassidy had participated in an extemporaneous exchange of Colt's courtesies in Santa Fe the year before, was the head of the organization and was also chairman of the committee on arrivals, and the two gentlemen of the Bar-20 had not been in town an hour before he knew of it.
Being anxious to show the strangers every attention and having a keen recollection of the brand of gun-play commanded by Mr.Cassidy, he planned a smoother method of procedure and one calculated to permit him to enjoy the pleasures of a good old age.

Mr.Travennes knew that horse thieves were regarded as social enemies, that the necessary proof of their guilt was the finding of stolen animals in their possession, that death was the penalty and that every man, whether directly concerned or not, regarded, himself as judge, jury and executioner.
He had several acquaintances who were bound to him by his knowledge of crimes they had committed and would could not refuse his slightest wish.
Even if they had been free agents they were not above causing the death of an innocent man.

Mr.Travennes, feeling very self-satisfied at his cleverness, arranged to have the proof placed where it would do the most harm and intended to take care of the rest by himself.
Mr.Connors, feeling much refreshed and very hungry, arose at daylight the next morning, and dressing quickly, started off to feed and water the horses.

After having several tilts with the landlord about the bucket he took his departure toward the corral at the rear.