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The promise was still on his lips when a third person strode into

their conversation.

"Sorry I had to leave you so hastily, Miss Kinney. I'm ready to

take you to the hotel now if it suits you."

Both of them turned quickly, to see the man from the Panhandle

sauntering forth from the darkness. There was a slight smile on

his face, which did not abate when he nodded to Dunke amiably.

"You?" exclaimed the mine-owner angrily.

"Why, yes--me. Hope we didn't inconvenience you, seh, by

postponing the coyote's journey to Kingdom Come. My friend had to

take a hand because he is a ranger, and I sat in to oblige him.

No hard feelings, I hope."

"Did you--Are you all safe?" Margaret asked.

"Yes, ma'am. Got away slick and clean."

"Where?" barked Dunke.

"Where what, my friend?"

"Where did you take him?"

Larry laughed in slow deep enjoyment. "I hate to disappoint you,

but if I told that would be telling. No, I reckon I won't table

my cards yet a while. If you're playing in this game of Hi-Spy go

to it and hunt."