Susie wanted to go along to look for some more material. He hitched up the buckboard before breakfast. Told the boys to stay close, split wood, and fix saddles. He even asked Louise if she needed anything for her trip, which she’d postponed to see how things turned out. Of course she declined his offer to get her anything, but at least she was wearing the poncho on the cool mornings over to the house for her appearances there. He wasn’t sure she knew that the cape was his idea and not Susie’s. If she did, maybe she wouldn’t have worn it. His .44/40 Winchester was packed in the buckboard as well, just in case. He and Susie set out about eight. There was still silver frost in the low places on the wiry dry grass, and he huddled under a flannel-lined canvas jacket. She dressed warm and wrapped herself in a gray blanket. They crossed Yellow Hammer Creek at the ford and headed into the small village. Smoke from stovepipes streaked the sky when they drove into view of the cluster of buildings.
