“I shouldn’t. Y’u see, I’d follow you and bring you back. And if I didn’t find you there would be a lamb lost again in these hills.”
“The sporting thing would be to take a chance.”
“And leave me here alone? Well, I’m going to give you a show to take it.” He handed her his revolver. “Y’u may need this if you’re going traveling.”
“Are you telling me to go?” she asked, amazed.
“I’m telling you to do as you think best. Y’u may take a hike or y’u may bring back Two-step to me. Suit yourself.”
“I tell you plainly, I sha’n’t come back.”
“And I’m sure y’u will.”
“But I won’t. The thing’s absurd. Would you?”
“No, I shouldn’t. But y’u will.”
“I won’t. Good-bye.” She held out her hand.