Conversation which had been loud and excited,eager calls from street corners that had punctuated the many-tongued argument and exposition,dimmed to silence.There was a forward movement of the men,not a rush but a vibratory swell of the human tide,pushing toward the steps of the hotel.The two riderless horses danced sidewise--Brick Willock had jumped upon the unpainted floor of the veranda,and Wilfred had sprung lightly to his side.
I'll just keep on my horse,muttered Bill,resting one leg stiffly over the pommel.I can't get up as I used to,and I expect to stay with ye,Brick,to the jail door.
Willock did not turn his shaggy head to answer.He had seen the sheriff at the other end of the piazza,and he made straight for him,not even condescending to a grin when the other,mistaking his intentions,whipped out his revolver.
Put it up,pard,Brick said gruffly.When you come to me in the cove,a few years ago,I give you a warm welcome,but now I ain't a-coming to you,I'm a-coming to the Law.Where's that there warrant?
The crowd that had been listening to the sheriff's discourse before the arrival of the highwayman,scattered at sight of the drawn weapon--all except Lahoma.
Brick!she cried,oh,Brick,Brick!
There was something in her voice he could not understand,but he dared not turn to examine her face;he could not trust himself if he once looked at her.
Get out your warrant,he cried savagely,and get it out quick if you want ME!His great breast heaved with the conflict of powerful emotions.I'm sure sorry to see you,old man,Mizzoo declared.We know Red Feather done what we was charging up against you.But I guess there's no other course open to me.As my aunt used to say (Miss Sue of Missouri)'I got a duty--do it,I must.'He thrust his hairy hand into his bosom and drew forth the fateful paper.