Dell followed the recital with a narration of her own experiences.
Thus the method of the abduction was cleared up, and the scout and McGowan were given clear understanding of all the details.
Thereupon Dell explained about the letter which she had brought from Phœnix for Buffalo Bill, and placed it in his hand.
The scout tore open the envelope and was soon deep in the letter’s contents. His face expressed surprise and wonder as he read.
“Here’s something,” said he, folding up the letter and placing it in his pocket, “something that makes it necessary for me to take the field against Bascomb, no matter what your decision regarding Bascomb and Bernritter may be, McGowan.”
“My letter is from the commandant at Fort Apache, and asks me to use my utmost endeavors to capture a deserter from the army. The man’s name is Slocum, but he was last seen in Phœnix, where he was using the name of Bascomb.”
“Jumpin’ taranches!” crooned old Nomad. “How these hyar trails o’ trouble does cross each other, sometimes!”
“Slocum, otherwise Bascomb,” proceeded the scout, “was a mutinous soldier. He was under arrest at Fort Apache, some weeks ago, for insubordination. In some manner he got hold of a revolver, shot his guard, and took to the hills. From the description of the fellow contained in the letter, there is no doubt in my mind but that the rascal with Bernritter is the same man.”
“If you have to take the field against Bascomb,” said he, “then it will be impossible for me to promise him and Bernritter immunity, and place the writing, with a five-pound bar of bullion, by the old shaft. Your activity would be construed as a breach of confidence on my own part. Can’t you put this off, Buffalo Bill, until my daughter is safely in my hands?”
Dell Dauntless whirled on McGowan with fiercy eyes.
“Mr. McGowan!” she cried. “Can it be possible that you are scared?--and that you intend to carry out the demands of two bluffing rascals like Bascomb and Bernritter?”
“I am anxious only for my daughter’s safety.”
“How do you know that Annie will be returned to you, even if you should give up what Bascomb and Bernritter demand?”
“I--I don’t; but I don’t feel like taking any chances.”
“Tush! Annie McGowan is my best friend, and I would face any danger for her. I would think of her safety, too, but I wouldn’t fall in with the schemes of these lawless scoundrels. I shall not return to the Double D Ranch until Annie is safe at the Three-ply--but you take my advice and give Buffalo Bill and me a free hand in this matter. Being Annie’s father, it is only natural that you should be so worried you can’t get the proper perspective of this business. Leave it to others. You’ll help, Buffalo Bill?” she asked, facing the scout.