"Testimony is conflictin'. Bill says he's all right. Ladd says he's all wrong. Testimony ain't no good any way. Never knew a feller as wouldn't lie if he had ter. This is the point. This feller wants land we bought and paid for, and he sets an awful bad example by comin' after it with a gun. That's enough fer me."
There were murmurs of approval at this simple statement and impatient cries of "Vote—vote."
"Say, Kid," said McShay to the prisoner; "you better offer to give up your claims and save your life."
"No half-breed would keep such a promise," said Ladd quickly.
McShay turned on the agent a look that held the other in a breathless grip for a second; then he only said: "Don't you interfere in this."
"And I won't make such a promise," said Hal simply.
"Vote—vote," came impatiently from all directions.
"All in favor of lettin' the prisoner go hold up the right hand."
McShay was always sure of the absolute support of Lee and Silent Smith on any side of any question.
"Three!" announced the judge grimly. "All in favor of hangin' the prisoner, similar!"