As yet,however, she had no inkling of the plot. Sue
Henderson and her mother cuther dead. This is thesecond time the Diamonds near been
busted. Jim, there are Ed Darnell and Molly, interrupted Gloriana, suddenly.
Slinger, I hope you didnt tell these wild men what you did inBabbitts, he returned.
Jim was not prepared for this vision of loveliness. After a moment of greeting Curly
elbowedan entrance for the others into the colourful hall.
Dont anybody move a hair, ordered Curly, and the
pivoting of his gunindicated the other players.
Curly an I made a round of the gamblin-placesthis
afternoon.
Two men behind him came up, evidently his
companions, andcurious.
Jim, there are Ed Darnell and Molly, interrupted
Gloriana, suddenly.
Life is orful hard fer a cowpuncher when hes in
love, observed Bud.
Tomorrow night is thisChristmas Eve dance. Molly
uttered an exclamation which was surelyamazed protest.
An afterwardshe begged so hard, an I longed so to
go to the dance, thet I went. Finally he said, gently: Darling, do you have any idea
to what extremesyou may drive me? Molly looked wonderfully sweet and pretty in her
new dress.
That had been his intention, should opportunity
offer. No, this is home, till youve grown out of your school-girl days. Glory, if it
wasnt for that, Id be theproudest escort you ever had at any dance. He gave his
mouthand chin the weakness characterising the over-indulgence in drink.
Jim, I am enjoying myself, admitted Gloriana, with
a blush. Moveover, it had potency to make her eyes pop open.
As they approached Molly she appeared to shrink,
all except her big darkeyes.
You know I wouldnt lie, replied Jim,most earnestly.
Oh, yes, Jim dear, it is too late, she sighed, mournfully. Themodest little parlour
was warm and comfortable indeed, compared with theblustery outdoors.
Am I to understand that this fusillade is kindly
meant? But somehow Jim still loves you, an I reckon I do, too.
Hump says hes too crippled yet an willonly look on.
Hump says hes too crippled yet an willonly look on. Jim espied Jackson Way with a
pretty brunette girl.
Were layin low, Boss, honest Injun, averred
Bud.
Jim had forgottenthat Slinger was Mollys brother,
her guardian, in his own estimation, atany rate.