He stepped back and waved his arms.
"Now, vamos!"
The black stallion flicked back its ears and winced from the outflung hands, but the rider remained imperturbed.
"I never heard of Mac Strann," said Barry.
"You never heard of Mac Strann?" echoed the other.
"But I'd like to meet him," said Barry.
The deputy marshal blinked his eyes rapidly, as though he needed to clear his vision.
"Son," he said hoarsely. "I c'n see you're game. But don't make a fall play. If Mac Strann gets you, he'll California you like a yearling. You won't have no chance. You've done for Jerry, there ain't a doubt of that, but Jerry to Mac is like a tame cat to a mountain-lion. Lad, I c'n see you're a stranger to these parts, but ask me your questions and I'll tell you the best way to go."
Barry slipped from the saddle.
He said: "I'd like to know the best place to put up my hoss."