'It does.'
'And I purpose raising the camp, and submitting the matter to the men.'
'You won't do that.'
'Why not?'
'Because I can satisfy you that I have a very excellent excuse for being here and for prying into your affairs.'
'I'll wait two minutes for that.'
'It won't take one, Jim. I am your brother, Richard Done!'
The revolver dropped from Jim's hand. He did not speak; every particle of him thrilled with intense emotion. For half a minute he stood rooted, speechless, and then he strode forward and seated himself on the bunk, staring closely into Ryder's face by the dim light of the candle.
'You will want proof?' said Ryder.
Jim shook his head. Ryder's declaration, abrupt and dramatic as it was, had struck him with absolute conviction. He was amazed, but he did not doubt. He understood now the origin of the deep impression this man had made upon him.