The sheriff's eyes widened when he heard the report.
"She won't say a word about herself, or about Juan Morisco," went on Matt.
"Can't blame her for that," said the sheriff.
It was plain that Morisco had told the sheriff something about Rags, and Matt would have liked to hear what it was. Time was pressing just then, however, and he had no wish to talk any longer.
As he was about to leave the room, the governor caught his hand, shook it heartily, and wished him luck.
"I have confidence in your ability to take care of yourself, King," said he; "if I hadn't, I shouldn't allow you to make this venture under any consideration. Keep a sharp look-out for trouble, that's all, and put the Comet through for all she's worth."
"I'll get your letter into Burke's hands, Governor Gaynor," declared Matt, "by five o'clock. Good-by, sir."
As he left the office the clock was striking twelve.
"He'll do it, too," declared McKibben.
A few moments after the door closed behind Matt, the secretary presented himself. He wore a troubled air.