A curious expression crossed Hill's strong countenance. It was almost a
smile of understanding. "I am--indebted to you--boss," he said, and with
the words very calmly he took his revolver by the muzzle and held it out.
"I surrender to you--without conditions."

Bill Warden gave a sharp start of surprise. For an instant he hesitated,
then in silence he took the weapon and dropped it into his pocket. A
moment longer he looked Fletcher Hill straight in the eyes, then swung
upon his heel.

"We'll get out of this infernal hole straight away," he said, and,
stooping, gripped his fingers upon a ridge of stone that ran close to the
floor. The stone swung inward under his grasp, leaving a dark aperture
gaping at his feet. Bill glanced backwards at his prisoner.

The smile still hovered in the latter's eye. "After you, Mr. Buckskin
Bill!" he said, ceremoniously.

And in silence Bill led the way.




CHAPTER XII

THE BOSS OF BARREN VALLEY


"Oh, my dear!" gasped Adela. "I've had the most terrifying adventure.
I thought I should never see you again. The men are all on strike, and