that card should be. What does that mean? That Bill Hart’s gun has been removed within the last few days.”
“My boy,” said Holley. “What are you talking about—”
“Hush,” warned Eden. The door opened and Madden, followed by Thorn, entered the room. For a moment the millionaire stood, regarding them intently.
“Good morning, Mr. Holley,” he said. “I’ve got your interview here. You’re wiring it to New York, you say?”
“Yes. I’ve queried my friend there about it this morning. I know he’ll want it.”
“Well, it’s nothing startling. I hope you’ll mention in the course of it where you got it. That will help to soothe the feelings of the boys I’ve turned down so often in New York. And you won’t change what I’ve said?”
“Not a comma,” smiled Holley. “I must hurry back to town now. Thank you again, Mr. Madden.”
“That’s all right,” said Madden. “Glad to help you out.”
Eden followed Holley to the yard. Out of earshot of the house, the editor stopped.
“You seemed a little het up about that gun. What’s doing?”
“Oh, nothing, I suppose,” said Eden. “On the other hand—”
“What?”
“Well, Holley, it strikes me that something queer may have happened lately on this ranch.”
Holley stared. “It doesn’t sound possible. However, don’t keep me in suspense.”
“I’ve got to. It’s a long story, and Madden mustn’t see
