“You have been released on probation,” the policeman reminded her, not unkindly. “Inspector Cameron has asked you to remain at home. What are you doing here?”
The woman sniffed again, but did not answer. She turned her back and began fumbling with the cinches of the saddle.
“You will return home at once,” Rand instructed her, endeavoring to keep his temper.
She turned her head and looked over her shoulder, her face set and determined.
“Why you say where I go?” she broke forth passionately. “What business you have tell me go home? I go, I stay where I like. First, you keel my man, then you put me in jail, then you say I no go where I wish. Police pretty big fool, eh?”
“Mrs. MacGregor,” declared the corporal patiently, “we have been more than kind to you. We released you from jail and placed you on probation. All that we have asked is that you remain at home and be good, attend to your own affairs. If you will do that, we will not put you back in jail again.”
“Bah!” snorted MacGregor’s wife, sticking out her tongue and defying him.
“You must promise to go back,” said Rand. “You must be good. You must not try to anger the police. If you will go back this afternoon, I will not mention this matter to the inspector. He shall know nothing about it and will not ask me to put you back in jail.”
For a moment the policeman believed that he had won his point. Her manner changed suddenly.
“My horse he is very tired.”