"Do you know," inquired Sterry, "how soon it is contemplated making the attack?"
"I have not heard Inman or Cadmus say, but from the talk of the men I judge it will be quite soon."
"Probably within a couple of hours?" "Sooner than that—by 9 o'clock at the latest."
It was the mother who now spoke: "Suppose Jennie and I decline to leave the house?"
"That has been considered," replied the son, "and I am sorry to say it will make no difference. The rustlers are in an uglier mood than before—wrathful because they have been kept idle so long. They can claim that they have given you ample notice, and if you refuse to come out they cannot be held blamable for the consequences."
This would never do, and Hawkridge interposed:
"If the attack cannot be prevented, Fred, it must be delayed."
"On what grounds?"
"Any that you can think of; they must not disturb us until near midnight."
"But I shall have to give a reason; I am as anxious as you to do my utmost, but I do not see how I can do anything."