the Key-Lock Man (1965) (19 page)

"It was a fair shooting," Matt said quietly.

"I know, and I played hell."

Matt turned away, resting a hand on Kris's shoulder. "I've got to lie down, Kris." He looked back at the men and gestured toward Cooley. "You do whatever you've a mind to with him.

He won't be looking for the Lost Wagons any more."

Cooley twisted toward him. "Why is that?"

"Because I found "em." Matt took a wagon-bolt from his belt. "Ever see that before, Cooley? It was your marker, stuck into a crack in the rock wall."

His hand on Kris's shoulder, he limped to their shelter. When he reached it, he almost fell onto the bed.

"In a couple of days we'll ride out of here, Kris."

"What about the stallion?"

"We'll come back for him."

He stretched out, easing his bruised leg to its full length. "Kris," he said, "make some coffee, will you? I'm tired."