"Yep; there ain't nobody here. Fire ahead, and say what ye're wantin' to."
Everett bent over and looked keenly into Lon's face; then slowly he threw a question at the fellow:
"Are you fond of those two children, or have you other motives for taking them from Shellington?"
Cronk made no reply, but settled back in the rickety chair and eyed Everett from head to foot.
"Be that any of yer business?" he said at length.
The lawyer took the repulse calmly. He had not come to fight with Lon.
"It's my business as far as this is concerned. If you care for them, and intend to shield them after you have them—well, say from all harm—and do your best for them, then I don't want your case. I'm willing to return your money."
For a moment the elder man looked disconcerted; then he jumped to his feet with an oath.
"Put her there, Mister!" said he, with an evil smile. He thrust forth a great hand, and for an instant Everett placed his fingers within it.
"I thought I had not guessed wrongly," the lawyer quickly averred. "If that is how you feel, I can do better work for you."