They were both relieved when the clatter of hoofs behind them, as they reached the valley, announced the approach of Stacy.

"I started with the second mule and the last load soon after you left," he explained, "and have just passed them.

I thought it better to join you and let the other load follow.

Nobody will interfere with THAT." "Then you are satisfied ?" said Demorest, regarding him steadfastly.
"You bet! Look!" He turned in his saddle and pointed to the crest of the hill they had just descended.

Above the pines circling the lower slope above the bare ledges of rock and outcrop, a column of thick black smoke was rising straight as a spire in the windless air.
"That's the old shanty passing away," said Stacy complacently.