Paso--and he did
not forget what he owed him. The Spider at that time had considerable
gold which he finally banked with the Stockmen's Security at the
other's suggestion. The arrangement was mutually agreeable. The
Spider knew that the president of the Stockmen's Security would never
disclose his identity to the authorities--and Hodges felt that as a
sort of unofficial trustee he was able to repay The Spider for his
considerable assistance down in Mexico.

CHAPTER XXXIV

DORIS

Contrast to the rules of the hospital, the head-surgeon was chatting
rather intimately with Pete's nurse. They were in the anteroom of the
surgical ward. She was getting ready to go on duty.

"No, Miss Gray," said the surgeon positively, "he can't hold out much
longer unless we operate. And I don't think he could stand an
operation. He has amazing vitality, he's young, and in wonderful
condition--outdoor life and pretty clean living. But he don't seem to
care whether he lives or not. Has he said anything to you about--"
The surgeon paused and cleared his throat.

"No. He just stares at me. Sometimes he smiles--and, Dr. Andover,
I've been here two years--and I'm used to it, but I simply can't help
feeling--that he ought to have a chance."

The surgeon studied her wistful face and for a moment forgot that he
was the head-surgeon of the General, and that she was a nurse. He
liked Doris Gray because of her personality and ability. Two years of
hard work at the General had not affected her quietly cheerful manner.

"You're wearing yourself out worrying about this case," said the
surgeon presently. "And that won't do at all."

She flushed and her seriousness vanished. "I'm willing to," she said
simply.

The doctor smiled and shook his finger at her. "Miss Gray, you know a
good nurse--"

"I know, Dr. Andover, but he hasn't a friend in the world. I asked him
yesterday if I should write to any one, or do anything for him. He
just smiled and shook his head. He doesn't seem to be afraid of
anything--nor interested in anything. He--oh, his eyes are just like
the eyes of a dog that is hurt and wants so much to tell you something,
and can't. I don't care what the newspapers say--and those men from
the police station! I don't believe he is really bad. Now please
don't smile and tell me I'm silly."

"I thought you just said he didn't have a friend in the world."

"Oh, I don't count--that way." Then hurriedly: "I for