"I'm afraid Mr. Lansing never got to Grant's," he said. "I'll ride over at once."
"Then I'm coming," Jake said shortly. "I'll bring the gun along."
Grierson lifted a clenched brown hand.
"So am I! If Mr. Lansing's hurt, somebody's got to pay!"
Edgar was stirred by something in their looks and voices; George had gained a hold on these men's loyalty which the regular payment of wages could never have given him. He merely signified assent, and, running out, sprang into the saddle. The others had evidently had their horses ready, for he heard them riding after him in a minute or two, though he was galloping recklessly through the bluff when they came up. The homestead was dark when they reached it, and they shouted once or twice before Grant came down.
"Is George here?" Edgar asked.
"No," said Grant, "we didn't expect him."
"Then get on your clothes quick! There's work on hand!"
Grant brought him in and struck a light, then hurriedly left the room; and Flora came with him, fully dressed, when he reappeared. Edgar supposed she had heard his sharp inquiry at the door, and he noticed that her expression was strained. He threw the note on the table.
"After what you said, I needn't ask if you wrote that."