"Yes, one never knows. I guess it's no use fixing things when—guided by circumstances."
They relapsed into silence and walked steadily on. Half the distance was covered when Jacky halted.
"Will Golden Eagle stand 'knee-haltering,' Bill?"
"Yes, why?"
"We'll 'knee-halter' 'em."
Bill stood irresolute.
"It'll be better, I guess," the girl pursued. "We'll be freer."
"All right," replied Bill. "But," after a pause, "I'd rather you didn't come further, little woman—there may be shooting—"
"That's so. I like shootin'. What's that?"
The girl had secured her horse, Bill was in the act of securing his. Jacky raised her hand in an attitude of attention and turned her face to windward. Bill stood erect and listened.