CHAPTER XXXVIII
TEN MILES’ START
When they were in the sitting room the sheriff confronted Rathburn.
“This has been a queer case for me,” he said slowly, with an attempt at harshness. “I knew Eagen was up to a lot of dirty work, but I never could fasten anything on him till to-night. I’ll get some of the rest of the gang now. Doane showed in his face that he was guilty. Those things don’t worry me none. But you are the hardest character I ever had to handle, Rathburn!”
“I don’t figure on givin’ you any more trouble, sheriff,” Rathburn assured him, smiling.
“That’s the puzzle of it!” Long exploded. “That puts it up to me. I know you had reason for giving Gomez his, and I know this girl wouldn’t lie about the other. But––well, I don’t get you a-tall, Rathburn, and that’s a fact. Something tells me I’ve got to give you a chance, and if I knew what tells me this I’d wring its neck!”
He stepped close to Rathburn and looked him straight in the eye.
“Take one of Mallory’s horses. He’s got some good ones. I give you ten miles in any direction. If you can make it––it’s your candy. But remember, Rathburn, I’m going to try to stop you!”
He walked swiftly out of the door, leaving Rathburn staring at the smiling girl.
Laura stepped close to him and nodded. Rathburn shook his head.