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356 built. He was a tall, raw-boned man of about thirty years of age; although his stooping shoulders and swinging gait gave him the appearance of being much smaller than he really was.

There was something in the movement of the man to attract attention, and as he drew nearer and a better view of his features were obtained, the broad, high forehead and piercing nut-brown eyes indicated that he was a man equal to any emergency, and one who could upon occasion wield a powerful force for good or evil amongst his acquaintances.

Gabe Husker, for such was the name of the person who had become the centre of attraction, was the owner of a valuable mine a couple of miles above the town. It was generally thought he had a large amount of gold dust hidden away; and this belief being shared by the gamblers, they had made numberless efforts to induce him to play, but so far without success. In fact Gabe had no love for gaming, nor liking for those who managed games of chance. He regarded all gamblers as thieves, and was no way bashful in speaking his sentiments. The gamesters, however, refused to be insulted by him, because they hoped ultimately to be able to succeed in their designs, when they would be avenged for all the insults he had ever given them.

"Times are right peart on Rabbit Creek, ain't they?" asked Gabe, as he entered one of the saloons, where a number of persons were standing in front of a long counter, waiting for drinks that were being prepared by the bar-keeper.