"Yes."

"May I water my horse?"

"Certainly. There's the trough."

"But mebbe if you knew who I was--" He hesitated, with his glance
on the listening men. "Mebbe you wouldn't let me water
him--though I ain't askin' none for myself."

"Stranger, it doesn't matter who you are. Water your horse. And
if you are thirsty and hungry come into my house."

"Thanks, ma'am. I can't accept for myself--but for my tired
horse--"

Trampling of hoofs interrupted the rider. More restless movements
on the part of Tull's men broke up the little circle, exposing
the prisoner Venters.

"Mebbe I've kind of hindered somethin'--for a few moments,
perhaps?" inquired the rider.

"Yes," replied Jane Withersteen, with a throb in her voice.

She felt the drawing power of his eyes; and then she saw him look
at the bound Venters, and at the men who held him, and their
leader.