Page:Randall Parrish - The Red Mist.djvu/407

 Rh by step, noiselessly. I was actually within reach of him, before some sense told him of my near presence, and he wheeled about only to find a leveled revolver staring him in the eyes.

"We meet again," I said coldly, "and it seems to be my luck to hold the cards."

"You! Good God! I thought—"

"I know what you thought, for I was within ten feet of you when you talked with Kelly. Put up your hands, Raymond! Yes, of course, but don't attempt any play—I only need an excuse to hurt you."

He glared at me savagely, yet his hands went up, although I could see him glance backward over one shoulder into the darkness of the ravine.

"You might make the jump," I said, drawing a revolver from his belt, "but to my best judgment there is a hundred foot sheer drop right here, and it would damage you some to take it. See," and I tossed the weapon over the edge, and we heard the sound as it struck on the rocks below. "I guess you'll not try that trick. And so you want me so badly you offer a reward, dead or alive? Isn't it rather my wife you want?"

"I don't believe she is your wife."

"Not after she gave you her word! That is hardly complimentary to the lady, Lieutenant.