Dave dropped his sliver, snatched off his hat, and rid himself of a quid of something strong—all in one convulsion of activity.
"'Scuse me," he apologized, approaching nearer. "Miss—Miss—Miss Laffin' Water, this is Van. His whole name's——"
"That's enough," Van interrupted. "I'm gratified to meet you, Señorita, I'm sure."
He extended his hand. Beth knew not what to do, wherefore she gave him her own.
"How do you do, Mr. Van?" she answered tremulously, and she drew her fingers back again at once. "If you don't mind," she added, "we really must continue on to Goldite as soon as possible." A fleeting look of doubt and alarm had swept all the mirth from her eyes. After all, even with this "introduction" what were these men's intentions? It was a grave affair to be halted thus—to be practically abducted—to be left with no protection, in the hands of roadside strangers, one, at least, of whom was certainly inclined to be lawless and outrageously bold.
The horseman regarded her seriously, as if with a certain divination of her worry. Someway, from the look in his eyes her confidence returned, she knew not why.
"Do you ride?" he asked her, "—you and your maid?"
"Why, yes—that is——" she addressed the maid on the suitcase. "Elsa, can you ride—on a horse?"
Elsa said: "Yes, Miss, if it is part of my duty."
Beth's composure increased. After all, it was a glorious day, the horseman was handsome, and she had wished for a little adventure—but not too much!