But his hint was not taken by the trader. Withers suddenly showed a
semblance of the aloofness Shefford had observed in Whisner.

"Withers, pardon an impertinence--I am deeply serious. . . . Are you
a Mormon?"

"Indeed I'm not," replied the trader, instantly.

"Are you for the Mormons or against them?"

"Neither. I get along with them. I know them. I believe they are a
misunderstood people."

"That's for them."

"No. I'm only fair-minded."

Shefford paused, trying to curb his thrilling impulse, but it was too
strong.

"You said there used to be another village. . . . Was the name of
it--Cottonwoods?"

Withers gave a start and faced round to stare at Shefford in blank
astonishment.

"Say, did you give me a straight story about yourself?" he queried,
sharply.