Cox said.“Everett and me are riding over there,” Virgil said. “Have a look at this firsthand.”“When?”“Subsequently,” Virgil said.“I’ll go with you,” Cox said.“Not necessary,” Virgil said.“Might not be,” Cox said, “but I insist.”“Conditions are bad,” I said.“Yes,” Cox said. “They are. No matter. I have a great deal invested in these men and this bridge.”Cox walked to the office doors and opened them.“Jessup,” Cox called.“Yessir,” Jessup replied.“Get my horse ready to ride,” he said.Jessup showed up at the doors.“Now?” Jessup said.“Yes,” Cox said. “Now.”Virgil looked to me and moved toward the door.“We have readying to do,” Virgil said. “We’ll come back around here in a bit. If you’re ready to ride, you can ride with us. We won’t wait on you.”“I’ll be ready,” Cox said.Virgil nodded and I followed him out of the office.We left Cox’s place and walked back in the direction of the sheriff’s office.“Think we need to try locate this Swickey fella,”
