Page:The Baron of Diamond Tail (1923).pdf/136

 If troubles hung over her, thought Barrett, they made no shadow.

She told Barrett that Nearing had gone to Saunders two days ago, and was not expected home before tomorrow. Manuel had not returned from Eagle Rock camp. Teresa, his wife, was worried. Had they any news of him?

"We delivered the letters you sent," Barrett explained, halting at the disagreeable news that lay behind the messenger's detention in camp.

"The horses was all out on the range," Fred explained. "I expect he had some trouble ropin' one to fetch him back. He'll be along."

Taking his cue from Fred's diplomatic avoidance of any explanation, Barrett seconded this opinion. Fred doubtless had his own delicate reasons for leaving it to the old Mexican to break the news of what had happened at camp. It was a commendable modesty in the hero of that cowardly plot against his life, Barrett thought; Fred Grubb's stock rose in his appraisement a sharp advance, although it stood pretty well near the top at that.

Mrs. Nearing came to the porch, where Barrett saw her leaning and listening.

"Who's there, Alma?" she inquired, her voice strained, impatient.

"Mr. Barrett and Fred, from Eagle Rock camp."

"Have they brought any word of your Uncle Hal?"

"No, Auntie Hope, they came from Eagle Rock camp," Alma returned, gently patient with the elder woman's querulous anxiety.