They both turned quickly and Scott recognized the old gentleman whom he had met on the train. He was standing in the doorway and smiling pleasantly.
“I just came into the office,” he explained, “and could not help hearing what you said.”
The supervisor rose from his chair and greeted the newcomer cordially. “What brings you this far west, Mr. Barnes?” he asked.
“Same thing that’s troubling you now, I guess.”
“Mr. Barnes,” the supervisor said, introducing Scott, “I want you to meet one of our new patrolmen, Mr. Burton. Mr. Barnes,” he explained to Scott, “is one of the good sheep men.”
“I’ve met him before,” Mr. Barnes said, shaking hands. “Still looking at the country?”
“Yes,” Scott answered, “and I find it even more interesting here than it was from the car window.”
Mr. Barnes explained to the supervisor how he had come to be acquainted with Scott. “Now about this partnership business. I sold a bunch of sheep to those fellows and they have not finished paying for them. I heard of Jed’s death and thought that I better come down here and look into the matter. Can you tell me where I can find Dawson now? I should like to see him to-day if possible.”
“Have you heard of the mix up we have had here?” Mr. Ramsey asked.
“No, I only heard that Jed was drowned when the dam went out.”