Before he could say another word she was down off the porch and running toward her brother, holding his horse while he dismounted, kissing him, patting him lovingly as they came toward the porch.
The latter greeted Hollis warmly. "A fellow couldn't help but feel good with a sister like that--now could he?" he inquired as he came upon the porch and took the chair which Nellie had vacated. She had disappeared into the cabin, not even looking at Hollis, but she could not have heard Hollis's reply had she remained. For it was wordless. There are times when men understand perfectly without speech.
Hollis stayed for dinner. Nellie was radiantly silent during the meal, attending to the wants of the two men, listening while they discussed recent happenings in the county. Ed was much pleased to hear of the coming of Ben Allen.
"That guy is business--through and through," he assured Hollis. "He was the best sheriff Colfax County ever had--and it's had some good ones. Allen's quiet, but there ain't anyone going to herdride him. Some have tried it, but they found it didn't pay and so they don't try it any more."
After dinner they went out on the porch for a smoke, leaving Nellie inside. They could hear her singing as she washed the dishes. Hazelton smiled as a particularly happy note reached his ears. "I don't know what's got into Sis," he said, flashing a swift glance at Hollis. "I don't know as I ever heard her sing that well before."
Hollis made no reply and the conversation turned to the drought--as all conversations did during that period. Word had come to Hazelton of Dunlavey's warning to the cattle owners. He had heard also of Hollis's announced intention of taking sides with the small owners.
"Dunlavey's ten days is up the day after tomorrow," said Hazelton. "If Dunlavey starts anything what are you going to do?"
"That will depend on what Dunlavey starts," smiled Hollis.
"H'm!" inexpressively grunted Hazelton. He flashed a glance at the face of the young man beside him, noting the firm mouth, the steady eyes, and the faint, grim smile. "H'm!" he said again. "I suppose you know who you're going to give your water to?" he questioned.
Hollis nodded. "To men who refused to help my father when he needed help," he returned.