"Now, who would want to live in a town like that, can you tell me?"
It occurred very strongly to Riley Sinclair that Cartwright had not yet fully ascertained whether or not his companion came from that very town. And, although the day before, he had decided that Sour Creek was most undesirable and all that pertained to it, this unasked confirmation of his own opinion grated on his nerves.
"Well, they seems to be a few that gets along tolerable well in that town, partner."
"They's ten fools for one wise man," declared Cartwright sententiously.
Sinclair veiled his eyes with a downward glance. He dared not let the other see the cold gleam which he knew was coming into them. "I guess them's true words."
"Tolerable true," admitted Cartwright. "But I've rode a long ways, and this ain't much to find at the end of the trail."
"Maybe it'll pan out pretty well after all."
"If Sour Creek holds the person I'm after, I'll call it a good-paying game."
"I hope you find your friend," remarked Riley, with his deceptive softness of tone.
"Friend? Hell! And that's where this friend will wish me when I heave in sight. You can lay to that, and long odds!"