Duncan’s face went slowly pale. He did not speak at once and when he did he was surprised at his hoarseness.
“I’ve brought your cayuse back,” he said finally.
“So I see,” returned Dakota. His eyes glinted with a cold humor, though they were still regarding Duncan with an alertness which the other could not mistake.
“So I see,” repeated Dakota. His slow drawl was in evidence again. “I don’t recollect, though, that I sent word to have you bring him back.”
“I wasn’t tickled to death over the job,” returned Duncan.
Now that his first surprise was over and Dakota had betrayed no sign of resenting his visit, Duncan felt easier. There had been a slight sneer in his voice when he answered.
“That isn’t surprising,” returned Dakota. “There never was a time when you were tickled a heap to stick your nose into my affairs.” His smile froze Duncan.
“I ain’t looking for trouble,” said the latter, with a perfect knowledge of Dakota’s peculiar expression.
“Then why did you come over here? I reckon there wasn’t anyone else to send my horse over by?” said Dakota, his voice coming with a truculent snap.
Duncan flushed. “Sheila Langford sent me,” he admitted reluctantly.