By the time the prisoner had reached the vacant lot in front of the store it appeared as if every man, woman, and child in the village were on the street.
Sam and Fred felt impelled to follow the howling, shrieking mob, although it was not probable they could aid the unfortunate man, and both pressed as near as possible.
"Billings' gang haven't got possession of the mine yet," Sam whispered.
"How do you know?"
"Because if that had happened we would see Bill Thomas or Donovan around here somewhere."
"Perhaps they have been made prisoners."
"It isn't likely. Even if they couldn't hold their own it would be possible to retreat in good order, armed as they were."
"Don't you suppose Mr. Wright will try to do something if these fellows really mean to hang Brace?"
"They are bound to help him; but I don't see what can be done against so many."
Owing to the crowd around him it was impossible for the boys to see the prisoner. The men swayed to and fro as if fighting among themselves, and after a time the reason of these movements was made plain.