"Ah—I am relieved to find you here and safe," he said.
"I am fortunate to be here—and safe," she replied with cold significance.
He said no more. It was enough to have learned, as he suspected, that she was sheltered by the Blakelys.
"I stopped"—he addressed Blakely—"to ask if you had decided to accept my offer?"
Blakely returned his gaze steadily, and shook his head.
"Not yet. There's no good reason why I should make a present of my stock to the L.X. Cattle Company."
"It's a fair offer—under the circumstances."
"A good offer—under the circumstances—but less than half their value."
"You may be glad to take it." His tone was a threat.
"Possibly," Blakely smiled. "When that time comes I'll let you know."
"This is final?"
"Final."
Spiser turned abruptly on his heel and walked away.
