The dance was over and another was in progress when Bill and Eliot Dodge came from that back room. Handsome Charley and his satellites were watching these two men. But they were permitted to pass to the door, where Bill shook hands with Dodge, who hurried forth into the night.
"How is that, Bill?" demanded Charley, hastily approaching. "I opine you agreed that you an' your friend would sure drink with me arter your business was over. I notices that he has hiked."
Bill turned.
"Count me in, Charley," he said easily. "Mr.—ah—Lewis, he didn't hev time. My neck is again a[Pg 306] whole lot dry, and I'll be pleased to irrigate with you."
So they stood up to the bar, and Frank saw a number of men drawing near from different directions, all coming forward quietly.
Charley openly expressed his disapproval of the conduct of Eliot Dodge.
"He certain was most onmannerly, Bill," he declared.
"Forget it," advised Bill curtly.
And this was not at all agreeable to the other.
"Mebbe I can't do that none," said Charley; "but I'll tell ye, Bill, what will help a whole lot."