He had visions of a ride and of possible trouble. Silent had taken a seat at the poker-table and would stay there as long as the game, or his money, lasted.
A little later Harp joined Brick at the saloon, where they stayed until about nine o’clock.
“Want to set in on the game, Brick?” asked Grant.
Brick yawned and shook his head.
“No-o-o, not tonight, Bill. I’m goin’ to fold up a little of the sleep stuff.”
“Same here,” grinned Grant. “I’m gettin’ old, I guess. Just a few more hands and I’ll be ridin’ toward the blanket.”
Brick got up and started for the door, with Harp behind him. They went to the office, drew the curtains, lighted the lamp and sat down.
“What’s the idea?” queried Harp.
Brick did not reply, so Harp did not repeat the question. For probably fifteen minutes they sat there before Brick blew out the light. Then they went to the rear of the place, crawled out through a window, closing it carefully behind them, and went out to their horses.
They led the horses quite a distance from the stable before mounting, and then Brick led the way straight back toward the Big Elk grades. There was no moon to light their journey, but Brick set the pace at a steady gallop until they reached the upgrade of Big Elk cañon. Harp asked no questions. He knew that Brick would explain things to him when he got good and ready, and not before.