"Why have you come back, Joe?" asked Langham finally, when he could command himself.
Montgomery started violently and his pipe fell from his mouth.
"Is that you, Boss Langham?" he faltered.
He stared about him seeking to pierce the darkness, fearful that Langham was not alone, that Gilmore might be somewhere near.
"Are you by yourself, boss?" he asked, and a tremor stole into his hoarse throaty voice. He still carried the scars of that fearful beating Gilmore had administered.
"Yes," said Langham. "I'm alone."
"I didn't know but Andy Gilmore might be with you, boss," said Montgomery, clearing his throat.
"No, he's not here," replied Langham quietly. "He's left town."
"Yes, but he'll be comin' back!" said the handy-man with a short laugh.
"No, he's gone for good."