"Going to Laramie?" he asked.
"Um-hum," Barbara said happily. "We're going to the dance there."
Dunbar barked, "Jankoski and Gearey, stay in line!"
Barbara found herself face to face with Hugo Gearey. At sight of him her heart lurched.
He removed his hat and bowed. Then, turning to Dunbar he said, with strict military formality, "Sergeant Dunbar, may I have five minutes alone with Miss Tower? I have an important message for her."
Dunbar scowled. "Barbara, is it your wish to talk with Private Gearey for five minutes?"
Barbara was torn. She knew that Gearey was not to be trusted, yet with all these men around to protect her—and if he did have a message—
She replied primly, "Five minutes should be ample."
Gearey behind her, Barbara rode on down the path until they were out of earshot but still in full view of the others.
Then she turned to him. "Well?"