He deposited Joe upon his own bed, and the men crowded round. And questions and answers came in a wild volley about him.
It was Arizona who spoke least and rendered most assistance. Together he and Tresler undressed the patient and treated him to a rough surgical examination. They soon found that no limbs were broken, but of his ribs they were less certain. He was severely bruised about the head, and this latter no doubt accounted for his unconsciousness. Cold water, harshly applied, though with kind intent, was the necessary restorative, and after a while the twisted face took on a hue of life and the eyes opened. Then Tresler turned to the men about him.
"Boys," he said gravely, "I want you all to remember that this is purely my affair. Joe's and mine--and Jake's. I shall settle it in my own way. For the present we have our work to do."
There was a low murmur, and Arizona raised a pair of fierce eyes to his face. He was going to speak--to voice a common thought; but Tresler understood and cut him short.
"Go easy, Arizona. We're good friends all. You wouldn't like me to interfere in a quarrel of yours."
"Never mind the 'buts.'" And Tresler's keen, honest eyes looked squarely into the seared face of the wild cowpuncher.
For a moment the men stood around looking on with lowering faces, eyeing the prostrate man furtively. But Tresler's attitude gave them no encouragement, and even Arizona felt the influence of his strong personality. Suddenly, as though with a struggle, the cowboy swung round on his fellows and his high-pitched tones filled the silent room.
"Come right on, boys. Guess he's right. We'll git." And he moved toward the door.
And the men, after the slightest possible hesitation, passed out in his wake. Tresler waited until the door had closed behind the last of them, then he turned to the injured man.
Joe's answer came readily, but in a weak voice.
Tresler seated himself on the bunk and looked into the gray face. At last he rose and prepared to go, but Joe detained him with a look.
"Good." Joe sighed and reclosed his eyes; but it was only for a second. He opened them again and went on. "Say, you won't tell her--Miss Dianny. Don't you tell her. Pore little soul, she'll wep them pretty eyes o' hers out, sure. Y' see, I know her. Y' see, I did git drunk yesterday. I knew I'd git it. So it don't signify. Don't tell her."
