The young chief
engineer signed to one of the stable boys, who came forward, half
reluctantly, and took the bridles of the three horses to lead them away.
Jim Duff, backed by three other men, stepped forward. There was a world
of menace in the gambler's wicked eyes as he began, in a soft, almost
purring tone:
"Mr. Reade," announced Jim Duff, "we are a committee, appointed by
citizens, to express our belief that the air of Paloma is not going to
be good for you. At the same time we wish to ask you concerning your
plans for leaving the town."
There could be no question as to the meaning of the speaker. Tom Reade
was being ordered out of town.
CHAPTER V
TOM HAS NO PLANS FOR LEAVING TOWN
"My plans for leaving town?" repeated Tom pleasantly. "Why, gentlemen,
I'll meet your question frankly by saying that I haven't made any such
plans."
"You're going to do so, aren't?" inquired Duff casually.
"By the time that my partner and I have finished our work for the road,
Mr.
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