"And his reputation is, he's not very slow when it comes to shooting, either," declared Kate.
McAlpin thought it a time for oil on the waters! "You've got to make allowances," he urged with dignity. "Ten years ago—less'n that, even—they was all pretty quick on the trigger in this country. Jim was a kid 'n' he had to travel with the bunch."
"And he was quicker 'n any of them," interposed Belle, defiantly, "wasn't he, Mac?"
McAlpin was for moderation and better feeling:
"Well," he admitted gravely, "full as quick, I guess."
"It seems to me," observed Kate, still resentful, "as if men here are pretty quick yet."
"Oh, no," interposed McAlpin at once; "oh, no, not special now'days. More talk'n there used to be—heap more."
"Bring over my pony, Mr. McAlpin, will you?" asked Kate, very much irritated.
McAlpin looked surprised: "You wouldn't be ridin' home tonight?"
"Yes," replied Kate, sharply, "I would."