n. And
the general opinion was an emphatic denial.

How could it? Had not scouts been sent out inquiring of outlying
settlers as to the prospect of a clear road? Had not information come
in that James was abroad, had been seen in a dozen different places in
the district? Had not the belief become general that the Spawn City
trail was being carefully watched, and even patrolled, by this common
enemy? Everybody knew that these things were so. The whole of this
stage business was simply flying in the face of Providence.

And amidst all the comment and talk Minky served the requirements of
his customers, wrapped in sphinx-like reserve. His geniality never
failed him. He had a pleasant word for everybody. And at every gibe,
at every warning, he beamed and nodded, but otherwise could not be
drawn into controversy. One remark, and one only, had he for all and
sundry who chose him as a butt for their pleasantries.

"Wal," he declared easily, "if I ladled out good United States
currency, to feed that bum tough James an' his crew o' hawks, seems to
me its findin' its way home right smart."

It was quite true. He stood to win in every direction. Sooner or later
every cent of money he had paid out in the purchase of gold would find
its way back to him, and go to help swell the fortune which was the
effort of his life. These men had not the commercial instinct of
Minky. And, furthermore, his meeting at night with the gambler, and
its resulting compact, was still a secret.

The popular laugh was for the moment against him, but he continued to
smile. And he knew that his smile would last the longer. He would
still be smiling when even the ghost of their laugh had been laid to
rest.

* * * * *

Sore heads were no deterrent next morning. Pillows were deserted at an
early hour. And those who had found it convenient to pass the brief
remainder of the night in their heavy, clay-soiled boots had the
advantage of breakfasting at the first hot rush of Birdie's
ministrations. And Birdie, with the understanding of her kind, had
bestowed special attention upon the quantity and quality of the
coffee, leaving the solid side of the meal almost unconsidered. It was
her duty to sooth parching throats, and she knew her duty.

It was a glorious morning. The sun rose radiant in a cloudless sky.
The air was still, so still. But the mountain chill began to give way
from the first moment that the great ar