"That's all, I guess—except that Ralston has the prisoner." A grim reminiscent smile came to the speaker's lips. "That is, he's got him if the floors of the cells here are paved good and thick. Last time I saw T. Blair he was fairly shaking post-holes into the ground with his feet."
Ben tried to shift in bed, but with the movement a sudden pain made him grit his teeth to keep from uttering a groan. For the first time he thought of himself.
"How much am I hurt, Grannis?" he queried directly.
The foreman busied himself doing nothing about the room. "You?" cheerfully. "Oh, you're all right."
Ben looked at the other narrowly. "Nothing to bother about, I judge?"
"No, certainly not."
Beneath the bedclothes the long body lifted, but despite anything it could do the face went pale.
"Very well, I guess I'll get up then."
Instantly Grannis was beside him, motioning him back, genuine concern upon his face.
"No, please don't. Not yet."