Then he came suddenly around a corner plump against a horseman climbing leisurely up the grade. Both stopped.
If Bob had entertained any lingering doubt as to Oldham's complicity in his abduction, the expression on the land agent's face would have removed it. For the first time in public Oldham's countenance expressed a livelier emotion than that of cynical interest. His mouth fell open and his eyeglasses dropped off. He stared at Bob as though that young man had suddenly sprung into visibility from clear atmosphere. Bob surveyed him grimly.
"Delighted to see me, aren't you?" he remarked. A slow anger surged up within him. "Your little scheme didn't work, did it? Wanted me out of the way, did you? Thought you'd keep me out of court! Well, I'm here, just as I said I'd be here. You can pay your villainous tool or kick him out, as you please. He's failed, and he won't get another chance. You miserable whelp!"
But Oldham had recovered his poise.
"Get out of my way. I don't know what you are talking about. I'll land you in the penitentiary a week after you appear in court. You're warned."
"Oh, I've been warned for some time. But first I'll land you."
"Really! How?"
"Right here and now," said Bob stepping forward.
Oldham reined back his horse, and drew from his side pocket a short, nickel-plated revolver.
"Let me pass!" he commanded harshly. He presented the weapon, and his gray eyes contracted to pin points.