“And he soon will be,” said another. “Glad we all came in time to help you two.”
“We are most grateful, gentlemen,” said Dallas. “Leave the unhappy wretch where he is. Come inside, and rest and refresh.”
It was about an hour later, when their fellow gold-seekers who had come to their help had gone, promising to return next day and help over the interment of the dead man, that Dallas turned to Tregelly, who was seated with his big arms resting upon his knees, gazing down into the cheery fire that had been lit.
“Sleepy, Bob?”
“Nay, my son. Never felt so wide awake in my life. I’m thinking.”
“What about?” asked Abel.
“About having killed a man,” said the big fellow gravely.
“It was in self-defence,” said Dallas.
“I dunno, my son. You see, I never give him a chance. Seems rather cowardly.”
“The wretch was trying to destroy our lives,” cried Abel hotly.