“Good morning,” was the hesitating reply. Rathburn recognized the voice of the girl who had fed him.
“Ma’am, I’m Sheriff Neal of San Jacinto County,” continued the deep voice, as several feet shuffled slightly. “These men with me are members of my posse. Maybe you know Judge Brown?”
“I––I’ve seen him,” answered the girl.
Rathburn could feel Lamy’s knees shaking against him in excitement.
“I believe we’ve met some time,” Brown put in. Rathburn thought the justice’s voice sounded tired.
“Ma’am, we’re looking for a man––or two men.” It was the sheriff speaking again. “Have you seen any one around here this morning––any stranger, or strangers, I mean?”
“Why, no,” replied the girl with a breathless catch in her voice. “I haven’t seen any one.”
“You’re sure?”
Rathburn frowned at the sheriff’s tone, although he kept his eyes on Lamy’s white face.