"So you base your recognition of the man on the identity of his horse. A doubtful assertion."
"Thar ain't no doubt in my mind, sergeant. Ef you'll 'ave it so, I did—some."
The officer turned to the other men.
"If there's nothing more you want this man for, gentlemen, I have quite finished with him—for the present. With your permission," pulling out his watch, "I'll get him to take me to the er—scene of disaster in an hour's time."
The two men nodded and Lablache conveyed the necessary order to the man, who then withdrew.
As soon as Bowley had left the room three pairs of eyes were turned inquiringly upon the officer.
"Well?" questioned Lablache, with some show of eagerness.
Horrocks shrugged a pair of expressive shoulders.
"From his point of view the man speaks the truth," he replied decisively. "And," he went on, more to himself than to the others, "we never had any clear proof that the scoundrel, Retief, came to grief. From what I remember things were very hot for him at the time of his disappearance. Maybe the man's right. However," turning to the others, "I should not be surprised if Mr. Retief has overreached himself this time. A thousand head of cattle cannot easily be hidden, or, for that matter, disposed of. Neither can they travel fast; and as for tracking, well," with a shrug, "in this case it should be child's play."
"I hope it will prove as you anticipate," put in John Allandale, concisely. "What you suggest has been experienced by us before. However, the matter, I feel sure, is in capable hands."