“It is a handsome weapon,” said the cattle dealer, taking it into his hands and examining it. “It must be worth a hundred dollars.”
“I think I shall keep it for my own use,” said Walter, quietly.
“I'll give you seventy-five dollars for it.”
“I would rather not part with it. Indeed, I should not feel justified in selling it, considering the way it came into my hands.”
“Well, boy, you're a smart one; but I surmise you haven't seen the last of the owner.”
The speaker was right.
CHAPTER XXV
DICK RANNEY'S SCHEME
Dick Ranney—for the first time we give the name of the highwayman—had no intention of going away without his revolver. It had been his constant companion for years, and had served him well during his connection with the famous band of Jesse James. Now, his leader dead, he was preying upon the community on his own account. So daring and so full of resources was he that he had never been arrested but once, and then managed to escape from the cabin in which he was temporarily confined.