"We'll hear the whole thing," replied the sheriff.
"Perhaps we can baffle them."
"Yes, if they give themselves away."
"Then we can't attack them now."
"Not if they have got work in view. If we should tackle them now we might not fustrate any game they might play when they get away. We can't expect to scoop the whole gang you know. Some would be bound to escape."
"Well, we'll hear what they have to say anyhow."
"Of coarse. We can grade ourselves according to circumstances afterward," whispered Timberlake cautiously.
The gang had been drawning closer around Jesse.
When they were close enough, the bandit rose, and said:
"Boys, we've got a big haul in view for to-night."