The answer so took the scout aback that for a moment he was at a loss what to say.
“I am sure, Latimer, I saw you out by the gate talking with a mounted Indian, not more than five minutes ago. I had just got to the steps, on the east side there, and saw the Indian ride up to the gate. You were there, and you spoke with him, and then he rode away.”
An angry look flashed over Latimer’s face.
“Cody,” he said quietly, “you are my guest here; and, therefore, I shall not try to call you to account for giving me the lie!”
“You mean that I did not see you out there talking with an Indian?”
“Certainly not.”
“Then, Latimer, I saw your very image and counterpart!”
“That may be, Cody. I can’t say as to that. You did not see me.” Latimer’s manner was strangely cold.
“You did not even know there was an Indian out there?”
“No.”