"Things have changed around here. People don't hold with the idea that every man should carry a gun and be a law unto himself. They've seen that only leads to a gang like Raoul and his rogues running things. They've decided they wanted the county run by those they've picked. And men like David Cooper and Tom Slattery came forward. Slattery is our new sheriff."
Elysée said, "The Victor Visitor has had much to do with this change."
Frank shrugged modestly and went on, "Right after your trial a group of men in Victor and on the farms hereabouts, mostly newcomers, formed an organization called the Regulators. They said it was a disgrace that the Army had to guard you during your trial and that you had to flee from the town when it was over. They're determined to keep order in Smith County, and Slattery has sworn them all in as deputies to make what they do legal. Things are tense now between the Regulators and Raoul's men, but the Regulators have more numbers and more spirit."
"Well then," said Auguste, exasperated, "why wouldn't these Regulators support me if I kill Raoul?"
"Because dueling is against the law. You'd stand trial again, for murder. And, by God, much as it might pain him, Cooper will hang you."
"And if you don't kill Raoul," said Nicole, "you'll die and he will still have Victoire."
Auguste felt as if he were struggling in a net of heavy ropes. His hands and heart ached for revenge on Raoul. Even if he did not get Victoire back.
But that was madness, to kill Raoul and be hanged for it.
"What can I do, then?" he asked in a low voice.
Nicole said, "David Cooper still has the papers that prove Pierre adopted you and left Victoire to you."