“I bet he learnt his lesson,” Despard grimaced.

“What? I don’t just understand.”

“About bein’ impudent to a lady that can shoot—straight!”

A flicker moved the woman’s countenance, and she smiled, oddly.

“Oh, any one is likely to make mistakes!” 180

“Darn fools is, Miss Crele. And you Old Crele’s girl! He might of knowed!”

The other two stepped out to help enjoy the conversation and the scenery.

“You know me?” she demanded.

“Yessum, we shore do. My name’s Despard—Jet here and Cope.”

She acknowledged the introductions.