As Kansas Kimball raised his weapon to fire,the man before him uttered a cry of terror and began to entreat for his life.In the full light of the dazzling moon,his face showed all the pallor,all the contortions of a coward who,though believing himself lost,has not the resolution to mask his fear.He poured forth incoherent promises of secrecy,ejaculations of despair and frenzied assurances of innocence.
Hold on,Kansas!interposed Red.There's not a one of the bunch believes that story about the last wagon getting away,and the dying wife.We know this Gledware is a spy,whatever he says,and that he brought the kid along for protection.He knew if we got back to No-Man's Land we couldn't be touched,not being under no jurisdiction,and he wanted to find us with our paint and feathers off.He's a sneaking dog,and a bullet's too good for him.But --with an oath--blessed if he don't hate to die worse than any man ever I saw!I don't mind to spare him a few minutes if he's agreeable.I put it to him--would he rather the kid be put out of the way first,and him afterwards,or does he want the first call?
For God's sake,put it off as long as you will!quavered the prisoner.I swear I'm no spy.I swear--
This is unpleasant,the captain of the highwaymen interposed.Just you say another word,and I'll put daylight into you with my own hand.Stand there and keep mum,and I'll give you a little breathing space.