'But you omitted to state how the horse came to be amongst your lot.'
'That is what I should like to find out. Perhaps you can help me,' said Jim.
'I shall do all in my power to apprehend the thief. There is too much of this sort of thing going on round here.'
'Yes, there is,' said Jim; 'and it is partly your fault, because you never catch the thieves. Why don't you try Dalton's gang?'
'That's my business,' said the sergeant, angrily. 'Remember I can make you account for having that horse on your premises.'
'I have accounted for it.'
'Shall you tell that story to Mr Shaw?'
'Certainly; that is what I am going over for.'
'Then we will ride back with you.'
'As you please,' said Jim; 'but I should prefer your room to your company.'