Chapter 22

I couldn’t catch Frank. Once on the road, he went full out, and though I did, too, I could do no more than gain occasional sight of him ahead. I had no idea where I was when he stopped among some trees to water himself and his horse. When I rode up, I faced his pistol.

“Just me,” I said, raising my free hand. “I got out, too.”

He’d lost his hat in flight and was blazing with color. He kept both eye and gun on me, suspect now of everyone. Or had he figured things? Did he have me nailed?

“Can I get some water?” I asked.

With the pistol, he motioned me to dismount, but kept me covered.

“I mean you no harm, Frank,” I said as I led my horse to the river. “You know I’m friendly toward you.”

He said nothing, so I got myself a drink, then turned toward him.

“Put your gun away. It’s over. I’m sorry we lost Merle and Ed, but at least we got out.” When I still got no reply, I continued. “Express company must be putting extra men on every run now. I never thought they’d get that smart.”