Slim shook the hands of his comrades, in turn, affectionately.
For each he had his own, particular form of greeting. "No, boys," he said, when the group became more orderly, "I ain't a-goin' to say a word 'till I see Mrs. Payson first."
Polly had ridden at once to the house to tell the joyful news of Slim's return to Echo, who hurried at once to the boys about the wagon.
Parenthesis spied her riding down the trail. "She's comin' now," he cried.
"Boys," requested Slim, "would you mind herdin' off yonder a bit?"
The cow-punchers strolled over to the cottonwood, leaving Echo to meet Slim alone.
"Where is he?" was Echo's tearful greeting.
"Well, ma'am, there's a man out yonder that's been through fire and brimstone for you!"
Echo stared over the prairies. Then Jack was still searching for Dick. Slim had failed to find him. "Out yonder," she moaned, wringing her hands.
"Wait a minute," says Slim. "He says to me, says he: 'Break it to her, Slim; tell her gentle—an' if she wants me—call, and I'll come.' Ma'am, Dick Lane is dead."