"I think it is safer."
"And go up in flame and smoke?"
"Won't you be willing to share the risk with me?" she asked, entering into his half-jocose vein.
"But the rustlers will save you that risk; they will give you a good point of observation, from which you can have a fine view of the scene."
"Suppose mother and I refuse to leave?"
"I am certain you will not do that," said Sterry, gravely, "for you will be in great danger under any circumstances."
"But if we remain they may not try to fire the house."
He shook his head.
"Dismiss all idea of that; do not fancy, because hours have passed without the exchange of a shot, that there is any friendship between the parties. By and by a gun will be fired; somebody will be hurt, and then they will be at it like so many tigers. No, Jennie," he added, "when the warning comes for you and your mother to withdraw you must do so, not only for your own sake, but for ours."
"And how yours?"