He started
quickly, however, as now, for the first time, the presence of Dillon
became obvious, and hurriedly thrusting the portrait into his vest, he
turned quickly to the intruder, and sternly demanded the occasion of his
interruption. The lieutenant was prepared, and at once replied to the
interrogatory with the easy, blunt air of one who not only felt that he
might be confided in, but who was then in the strict performance of his
duties.
"I came at your own call, captain. I have just returned from the river,
and skirting down in that quarter, and was kept something later than I
looked for; hearing, on my arrival, that you had been inquiring for me,
I did not hesitate to present myself at once, not knowing but the
business might be pressing."
"It is pressing," responded the outlaw, seemingly well satisfied with
the tacit apology. "It is pressing, Dillon, and you will have little
time for rest before starting again. I myself have been riding all
night, and shall be off in another hour.
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