"Coach held up at Bud Benton's grave, and I fatally wounded.
"One passenger on box killed; miner in coach also.
"Coach robbed of large sum.
"Road-agent was alone, wore black domino and red mask, horse also masked, but feel sure I know him.
"I have just strength to write this, and beg quick aid, sending it by one of my wheelers.
"Come quickly if you hope to find me alive.
"Dave."
A roar went up from the crowd of miners at the reading of this note from Dave Dockery, who even then might be dying, and Landlord Larry cried:
"Spread the alarm, and let us go quickly to the spot, and try and save poor Dave, yes, and capture that masked road-agent, for he has got money in plenty.
"Oh! if Doctor Dick was only here to look after poor Dave, he might save him. Let me see! the coach was due at Bud Benton's grave about two o'clock and it is now after three. Come, men, mount and follow me!"