He nodded pleasantly to Hashknife and Sleepy and dismounted, allowing his trousers to resume a normal attitude toward his legs.
“I just rode out to see how things were going,” he explained. “I spoke to Mr. Taylor about it.”
“Well, yuh don’t need to apologize,” grinned Hashknife. “Of course yuh got here pretty early in the mornin’ to find anythin’ goin’ on. That’s quite a bronc you’ve got.”
“Yes; he’s all right. Not much for looks, but reliable. Is Miss Taylor at home?”
“I think you’ll find her in the house.”
“Thank you.”
Barnhardt dusted off his clothes, with a flap of his hands, and headed toward the house, while Hashknife and Sleepy grinned at each other.
“That,” said Hashknife seriously, “is the attorney.”
“I’m disappointed,” said Sleepy seriously.
“Yuh don’t need to be, Sleepy. Hello! Here comes the next chapter.”