"Well, I been a studyin' on this thing right smart, and I had 327 sorter worked it out in my mind for you to hear the talk yo'self—just happen in and hear Mr. Hands. Don't you reckon that'd be the best way?" suggested Fuson.
"Yes—good as any," assented Lance. "I'm not lookin' for much trouble with Flent Hands. Here, Jimmy," he called to the sleepy boy who came yawning in, "you take my black horse out of the wagon, and put a saddle on him—you've got one here, haven't you? Put a saddle and a riding bridle on him, and tie him in the vacant lot across from Derf & Hands's store about half-past eight o'clock. I'll bring the saddle back when I'm through with it."
"All right," Jimmy roused himself to assure Lance. "I'll have Sate thar on time. Pap's got a saddle an' bridle o' yo' brother Taylor's here, Fuson. Lance can take 'em back."
As the two friends came out shoulder to shoulder, Buck said quietly,
"Derf, he's got it in for you, too."
Lance nodded.
"Derf ain't never forgive me because he robbed me of money," he added, well aware that his indifference to Ola had given the father perhaps greater offence.
They walked for a little time in silence; then Fuson said a little wistfully,
"I 'lowed I ort to tell you."
"Hit was what a friend should do," Lance agreed with him, 328 putting out a hand.