Waters had been missing for some time.
Old Broadbrim put this and that of the guard's story together, and concluded that the pair had pounced upon him soon after his (Old Broadbrim's) departure for Perth.
Had they wormed the truth out of Dick Waters?
He would not believe it, for Waters was a fearless man and would stand by his sworn promise.
All at once a hand was laid on Old Broadbrim's shoulder, and he turned to look into the face of Merle Macray.
"Back once more, eh, Riggs?" cried the man. "I'm glad you're here, for the bandits may give us something more to do, and, with several graves over there on the hill, we will need a hand and an aim like yours. You're ready, of course, for the battle?"
"Yes, always ready."
Merle twisted his mustache and looked toward the burned sheds.
Within the next half hour the captain of the guards came, and Old Broadbrim mounted his horse to take his station on the range.
This time he was placed in the darkest and wildest place on the ranch.