"Stop," called Ladd to Bill. "Cadger don't want to be mixed up in this. Besides, he can't leave the store."
The agent was conscious that this sounded hurried and feeble, and it seemed not to impress Bill, for he went on directly into the store. Hal reassured the agent—with the suggestion that Bill would look after the store for the trader. Indeed, one per cent. of small boy would have been able to take care of the trade just at that moment.
"Things are coming my way to-day, Mr. Ladd; better let me have my way."
Whether the agent would have consented to this or not, the chief of police had his way, for Bill appeared with Cadger in charge.
In fact, Cadger knew that Bill would bring him bodily, so he thought it more dignified to come of his own accord.
"Just put your weapon with the others, Cadger," said Calthorpe, "and come here."
The little furtive man glanced swiftly at Ladd for guidance and Bill took his gun and rags out of his hands before he could determine on what course he ought to pursue. Bill broke the gun, then glanced curiously over the little man:
"Cleanin' a loaded gun, too! Ain't you careless?"
"Wah-na-gi, come here, please," said Hal, never taking his eyes from Ladd's face.
She had remained in the background as Cadger came down. Now she came to Hal who was standing with the trader in easy reach. Cadger seemed to shrink and get smaller as he blinked feebly. The business of the meeting was forgotten. Again the young man diverted the interest and every one wondered what would happen next.