I rides out of Piperock with joy in my heart, ’cause I’m going in the general direction of my heart’s desire, and Magpie has gone the opposite. What do I care for outlaws? Duty to me is self-preservation.
Me and Magpie meets at the door. We nods like distant relatives, and each knocks on our side of the door. The lady makes us welcome, and we sets down.
“I’m so glad to see yuh,” says she, and Magpie walks plumb across the room to shake hands with her.
“I wish I’d ’a’ known yuh was coming today,” she states. “I’d ’a’ had yuh bring me some stuff from town.”
“Well, ma’am,” says Magpie, “if there’s anything yuh want I can send Ike after it. What’s the use of having hired men if yuh don’t use ’em. Tell me what your heart desires.”
“I ain’t got no time,” says I, “I’m headed for Sullivan Gulch. I’d love to do it, ma’am, but I’m rushed. Magpie’s just loafing, so he’ll be glad to do it.”
Magpie glares at me and I glares right back at him.
“How lovely,” coos this here lady. “It will be lovely.”
“We’ll both go, Ike,” states Magpie. “I got a little job of work in Piperock that you can attend to while I’m bringing the stuff back. Write out your list, ma’am, and I’ll deliver it right to your door.”
Me and Magpie pilgrims back to Piperock in silence, buys the stuff for the lady, and goes down to the office.