To this Lambert made no reply other than to say: "We'll soon know, the nigger is returning."
Some shade of the master's mood was reflected in the voice of the servant, as he said: "The ladies are out and Mr. Pratt is engaged." He had the air of waiting for them to go.
"Out, are they?" remarked Lambert, casually. "Then we'll wait till they come in. When did you say they'll return?"
"I didn't say, sir; probably not till very late."
"Is Clarke in?"
"I don't know, sir. I think not."
"But your boss is in?"
The man hesitated. "Yes, sir; but I told you he's engaged."
Lambert changed his tone. "Now, see here, Charley, you go right back and tell him that Joe Lambert, of Fremont Basin, is here on business, and would like to have a word with him if he don't mind."
The colored man saw a light, and visibly weakened. "I—I'll tell him," he stammered, and retired.