Overland thrust up a soiled palm. "Nix; you never did yet. How much coin can you rustle?"
"I got that eight-and-a-half I had when we was pinched. It's down to the bunk-house."
"Well, bring it up here to-morrow mornin'. And, say, swipe a sogun for me. I near froze last night."
Collie's brows drew together. "I'll bring the money, sure! but I can't swipe no blanket, even for you. The boss thinks I'm square, and so does she. I'll bring tobacco and papers. Got any grub?"
"Well, some. I ain't exactly livin' on sagebrush and scenery yet. I been trainin' some chickens to do the Texas Tommy. Every one that learns to do it in one lesson gets presented with a large hot fryin'-pan. Surprisin' how them chickens is fond of dancin'. I reckon I learned six of 'em since I seen you last. But don't forget the eight rollers and four bits. I need ten, but eight-fifty will do. I'll have to leave out the silk pejammies and the rosewater this trip. But kickie pants is good enough for me to sleep in. How's that sheriff gent?"
"Busted his collar-bone and killed his horse."
"I'm sad for the hoss. How do you like livin' decent?"
"Fine, Red! I wish you would—"
"Hold on, Collie, not me! I'm gettin' too old, too plumb old and disgusted with this vale of steers to change and tie down to short grass. Now you're near enough to the age of that little Louise girl to make life interestin'."
"Who said anything about her?"