Thus Texas grew into the Imperial Commonwealth of the South.
To save appearance McLeod was removed to Independence with the other prisoners, and in a short time released, with a number of others against whom insignificant charges were lodged.
When he returned to Hambright the people looked at him with suspicion.
“How is it, young man,” asked the Preacher, “that you are at home so soon, while brave boys are serving terms in Northern prisons?”
“Had nothing against me,” he replied.
“That’s strange, when Sam Worth swore that you organised the raid to kill Rufe Lattimore.”
“They didn’t believe him.”
“Well, I’ve an idea that you saved your hide by puking. I’m not sure yet, but information was given that only the man in command of the whole county could have possessed.”
“There were a half-dozen men who knew as much as I did. You mustn’t think me capable of such a thing, Dr. Durham!” protested McLeod with heightened colour.