“Not nary, ma’am,” returned Kipp. “I’d like fer tuh pow-wow some with Hank regardin’ him and them cattle. Beginnin’ this mornin’, Miz Basset, I’m turnin’ this here sheriff star over tuh Hank. Then I’m makin’ a trip into the bad-lands. Iffen I comes out with them lost cattle I’ll be askin’ fer the badge. Iffen I don’t bring them cattle out, I won’t be needin’ it no more nohow. As fer Pete, I ain’t a-huntin’ the boy ner would I lay a hand on him, was I tuh run acrost him. Until I come back from the Pocket, I’m a plain, everyday citizen.”
Tad and Ma gazed at the old officer in startled surprise. Tad was smiling oddly. The rifle barrel slid out of sight in the barn and Hank Basset, holding the gun in the crook of his arm, stepped into sight.
“Howdy, Joe. I done heered yuh. What’s the idee in actin’ that-away?”
Kipp grinned.
“A feller done told me a story last night, Hank. I don’t reckon he meant tuh, but he sorter showed me which trail tuh take, beginnin’ here. I want that you should keep this here badge fer me fer a spell. After breakfast, I’ll be askin’ the loan of a fresh hoss.”
“Land sakes!” gasped Ma, reminded of her duty to those who ride within one’s gate. “Light and come to the house. There’s flapjacks and steak that’s sp’ilin’ to be et.”
Hank gazed thoughtfully for a moment at Kipp’s badge, now lying in the palm of his hand. Then he pocketed the star and reached for the bridle reins of the two horses.
“Foller Ma to the house, Joe. Tad, will yuh lend me a hand fer a minute er so here at the barn?”
Kipp and his wife out of sight, Hank led Tad to the barn with an air of one who has news to impart.
“Where’s Shorty?” asked Tad.