text stringlengths 2.05k 1.01M | title stringlengths 2 620 | author stringlengths 0 92 | author year of birth stringclasses 367
values | author year of death stringclasses 390
values | language stringclasses 16
values | downloads stringclasses 887
values | subjects stringlengths 7 775 | document id stringlengths 3 7 | type stringclasses 1
value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Milligan, at this, cursed George, but he was drawn by curiosity to
consent. A moment later he was seated at Donnegan's table, drinking his
own liquor as it was served to him from the hands of big George. If the
first emotions of the dance-hall proprietor were anger and intense
curiosity, his second emotion was that ne... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
While he smiled into the face of Milligan, perspiration was bursting out
under his armpits.
"Mr. Milligan, I implore you to give me your aid."
"What's the difference?" Milligan asked in a changed tone. "If he don't
fight you here he'll fight you later."
"You're wrong, Mr. Milligan. He isn't the sort to hold malice. He... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
As for Donnegan, he found that it was one thing to wait and another to
be waited for. He, too, wished to turn and watch that door until it
should be filled by the bulk of Jack Landis. Yet he fought the desire.
And in the midst of this torturing suspense an idea came to him, and at
the same instant Jack Landis entered ... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"Hark to this gent sing," said one, and his name was the Pedlar. "Hark
to him sing, Jack, and we'll see that you get fair play."
"Good," said his friend, Joe Rix. "Let him take his try, Jack."
As a matter of fact, had Donnegan reached for a gun, he would have been
shot before even Landis could bring out a weapon, for ... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
He turned to the crowd.
"Gentlemen, is it a good plan?"
As well as a Roman crowd if it wanted to see a gladiator die, the frayed
nerves of The Corner responded to the stimulus of this delightful
entertainment. There was a joyous chorus of approval.
"When the clock strikes, then," said Landis, and flung himself down in... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"Just as you please," said Donnegan, sipping his glass. "But remember
this, my young friend, that a fool is a fool, drunk or sober."
Landis showed his teeth, but made no other answer. And Donnegan
anxiously flashed a glance at the clock. He still had three minutes.
Three minutes in which he must reduce this stalwart f... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
The strain was telling in other places. Donnegan turned and saw in the
shadow and about the edges of the room a host of drawn, tense faces and
burning eyes. Never while they lived would they forget that scene.
"And now that the time is close," said Donnegan, "I must look to my
gun."
He made a gesture; how it was, no o... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
It told on Landis. Out of the corner of his eye Donnegan saw the muscles
of the man's face sag and tremble; saw him allow his gun to fall, in
imitation of Donnegan, to his side; and saw the long arm quivering.
And then the chime rang, with a metallic, sharp click and then a long
and reverberant clanging.
With a gasp L... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
A door was knocked off its hinges. But before the wounded man was placed
upon it, Lebrun appeared at the door into Milligan's. He was never a
very cheery fellow in appearance, and now he looked like a demoniac. He
went straight to Joe Rix and the skeleton form of the Pedlar. He raised
one finger as he looked at them.
... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
What he saw when he was admitted made him speechless. Colonel Macon,
ensconced in his invalid chair, faced the door, and near him was Lou
Macon. Lou rose, half-frightened by the unexpected interruption, but the
liquid laughter of the colonel set all to rights at once.
"Come in, Donnegan. Come in, lad," said the colone... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"I gathered you had been unfortunate. And now you have been fighting?"
"You have heard?"
"I see it in your eye, Donnegan. When a man has been looking fear in the
face for a time, an image of it remains in his eyes. They are wider,
glazed with the other thing."
"It was forced on me," said Donnegan. "I have shot Landis.... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
Now, Donnegan had known cold-blooded men in his day, but that there
existed such a man as the colonel had never come into his mind. He
looked upon the colonel, therefore, with neither disgust nor anger, but
with a distant and almost admiring wonder. For perfect evil always wins
something akin to admiration from more c... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"I swear to you," he said, "that if you can help me to the possession of
Landis while he is ill, I shall not lay a finger upon him or harm him in
any way."
"You swear?" said Donnegan with that ugly smile.
"My dear boy, do you think I am reckless enough to break a promise I
have given to you?"
The cynical glance of Don... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
The picture came to Donnegan of Landis, lying in the cabin of the
colonel, his childish mind worked upon by the devilish insinuation of
the colonel. Truly, if Jack did not go mad under the strain he would be
very apt to do as the colonel wished.
"I have made a mess of this from the beginning," said Donnegan, quietly.
... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"Tush!" said Donnegan. "Bring him away from Lebrun? Bring him away from
the tigers of Lord Nick's gang? I saw them at Milligan's place tonight.
A bad set, Colonel Macon."
"A set you can handle," said the colonel, calmly.
"Ah?"
"The danger will in itself be the thing that tempts you," he went on.
"To go among those fel... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"Is there anything more that I can do?" she asked, moving toward the
door.
"Nothing."
"Good night."
"Wait."
She still seemed to be under the authority which the colonel had
delegated to Donnegan when they started for The Corner. She turned, and
without a word came back to him. And a pang struck through Donnegan.
What ... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"You bought murderer!" she cried at him.
"He is not dead."
"But you shot him down!"
"He attacked me; it was self-defense."
She broke into a low-pitched, mirthless laughter. Where was the
filmy-eyed girl he had known? The laughter broke off short--like a sob.
"Don't you suppose I've known?" she said. "That I've read my... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
But Donnegan lay on the bed without moving for hours and hours, until
big George, who sat wakeful and terrified all that time, was sure that
he slept. Then he stole in and covered Donnegan with a blanket, for it
was the chill, gray time of the night.
But Donnegan was not asleep, and when George rose in the morning, he... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
He added fiercely: "I'm through. Now, talk turkey, Donnegan, or you're
done!"
For the first time Donnegan moved. It was to make to big George a
significant signal with his thumb, indicating the visitor. However,
Lester did not wait to be thrown bodily from the cabin. One enormous
oath exploded from his lips, and he ba... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
So the high heels of Donnegan tapped across the floor of Lebrun's. A
murmur went before him whenever he appeared now, and a way opened for
him. At the roulette wheel he stopped, placed fifty on red, and watched
it double three times. George, at a signal from the master, raked in the
winnings. And Donnegan sat at a far... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
Indeed, he had half forgotten that he was a public figure in The Corner,
and sitting sipping the cordial which big George brought him at once, he
let his glance rove swiftly around the room. The eye of more than one
brave man sank under that glance; the eye of more than one woman smiled
back at him; but where the surv... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"I must go at once," said Nelly.
"Of course, I can't expect you to stay."
She dropped one hand on the edge of the table. One would have thought
that she was in the very act of rising.
"Do you know that you frighten me?"
"I?" said Donnegan, with appropriate inflection.
"As if I were a man and you were angry."
"But you ... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"Because there is a glamour about a beautiful girl," he said gravely.
"One has to step into the halo to see her, to know her. Are you
contented to look at a flower from a distance? That's an old comparison,
isn't it? But there is something like a fragrance about you, Nelly
Lebrun. Don't be afraid. No one can hear; no ... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
He paused; she was looking a little past him.
"I came in rags; no friends; no following. And I saw that I should have
to make you notice me."
"And why? No, I shouldn't have asked that."
"You shouldn't ask that," agreed Donnegan. "But I saw you the queen of
The Corner, worshiped by all men. What could I do? I am not ri... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"There is something wrong," said the girl, in a tone of one who argues
with herself. "It's all too logical to be real."
"Ah?"
"Was that your only reason for fighting Jack Landis?"
"Do I have to confess even that?"
She smiled in the triumph of her penetration, but it was a brief,
unhappy smile. One might have thought t... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"Oh, they are adorable!"
"With dull eyes," said Donnegan coldly, and a twinkle came into the
responsive eye of Nelly Lebrun. "The sort of a girl who sees a hero in
such a fellow as Jack Landis."
"And Jack is brave."
"I shouldn't have said that."
"Never mind. Brave, but such a boy."
"Are you serious?"
She looked questi... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"It's no good," Nelly Lebrun said with a sigh. "Even if he were taken
away--and then it would get you into a bad mess."
"Would it? Worse than I'm in?"
"Hush! Lord Nick is coming to The Corner; and no matter what you've done
so far--I think I could quiet him. But if you were to take Landis
away--then nothing could stop... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
In the hut on the hill, Donnegan put George quickly to work, and with a
door and some bedding, a litter was hastily constructed and swung
between the two horses. In the meantime, Donnegan climbed higher up the
hill and watched steadily over the town until, in a house beneath him,
two lights were shown. He came back at... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"You see?" said Donnegan, panting, to the girl.
"Yes; it was really wonderful!"
"You are laughing, now."
"I? But hurry. My father has a fox's ear for noises."
"He will not hear this, I think." There was a swift scuffle, very soft
of movement.
"Nelly!" called a far-off voice.
"Hurry, hurry! Don't you hear?"
"You forgiv... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
The rest was done by the man without; he cast the door open with the
pressure of his foot, caught the girl in his arms, and kissed her; and
while he closed the door the girl slipped back and stood with one hand
pressed against her face, and her face held that delightful expression
halfway between laughter and embarras... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"I hear you've been raising the devil," said this singularly frank
admirer.
The girl merely looked at him.
"Well?" he insisted.
"I haven't done a thing," protested Nelly rather childishly.
"No?" One felt that he could have crushed her with evidence to the
contrary but that he was restraining himself--it was not worthw... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"Ah," Lord Nick murmured. "And why?"
"Because he's in love--with me."
"Tush!" said Lord Nick. "I see you, my dear. Donnegan seems to be a rare
fellow, but he couldn't have gotten Landis out of this house without
help. Rix and the Pedlar may have been a bit sleepy, but Donnegan had to
find out when they fell asleep. He... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"For your own sake."
He stood up.
"I'm going up the hill today. If Donnegan's there, I'll go through him;
but I'm going to have Landis back!"
She, also, rose.
"There's only one way out and I'll take that way. I'll get Donnegan to
leave the house."
"I don't care what you do about that."
"And if he isn't there, will you... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
He was on the ground in a flash with the reins tucked under one arm and
his hat under the other; she became aware of gloves and white-linen
stock, and pale, narrow face. Truly Donnegan made a natty appearance.
"There's no day like a cool day for riding," she said, "and I thought
you might agree with me."
He untethered... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"That," said Donnegan, "is a dangerous question."
And he allowed such hunger to come into his eye that she caught her
breath. The imp of perversity made her go on.
"And why dangerous?"
It was an excellent excuse for an outpouring of the heart from Donnegan,
but, instead, his eyes twinkled at her.
"You are not frank," ... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"In fact I have an educated taste; I disapprove of myself, you see, and
long ago learned not to take myself too seriously."
"Which leads to--"
"The reason why I have wandered so much."
"Like a hunter on a trail. Hunting for what?"
"A chance to sit in a saddle--or a chair--and talk as we are talking."
"Which seems to b... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
She shook her rein again, but Donnegan sat still in his saddle and
looked fixedly at her.
"That's why you brought me out here," he announced. "Oh, Nelly Lebrun,
what's behind your mind? Who is it? By heaven, it's this Lord Nick!"
"Mr. Donnegan, you're letting your imagination run wild."
"It's gone straight to the poin... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
So he went straight to the colonel, and when he came close he saw that
the fat man was apparently in the grip of a chill. He had gathered a
vast blanket about his shoulders and kept drawing it tighter; beneath
his eyes, which looked down to the ground, there were violet shadows.
"I've lost," said Donnegan through his ... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
The colonel paused to chuckle at some enjoyable memory.
"Then Nick came. You see, I know all about Nick."
"And Nick knows all about you?"
For a moment the agate, catlike eyes of the colonel clouded and cleared
again in their unfathomable manner.
"At moments, Donnegan," he said, "you have rare perceptions. That is
exac... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
It was the cessation of all talk from the gathering crowd outside that
made Donnegan lift his head at length, and know that Lord Nick had come.
But before he had time to prepare himself, the door was cast open and
into it, filling it from side to side, stepped Lord Nick.
There was no need of an introduction. Donnegan ... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
Indeed the history of some lives of action held less than the
concentrated silence of these two men during that second's space.
And now Donnegan felt the cold eye of the other eating into his own,
striving to beat him down, break his nerve. For an instant panic got
hold on Donnegan. He, himself, had broken the nerve o... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"My size keeps me from stooping," said Donnegan, "I shall look up to
you, sir, until the moment you fall."
"Well hit again! You are also a wit, I see! Donnegan, I am almost sorry
for the necessity of this meeting. And if it weren't for the audience--"
"Say no more," said Donnegan, bowing. "I read your heart and apprec... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
Lord Nick set his teeth.
"Now," he said, "it is certain that you must die!"
But Donnegan cast out his arms and broke into a wild laughter.
"Oh, you fool, you fool!" he cried. "Don't you know me? I am the
cripple!"
32
The big man crossed the floor with one vast stride, and, seizing
Donnegan by both shoulders, dragged... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"Don't tell me any more. All that matters is that I have you at last,
Garry. Heaven knows it's a horrible thing to be kithless and kinless,
but I have you now! Ah, lad, but the old pain has left its mark on you.
Poor Garry!"
Donnegan shuddered.
"I've forgotten it. Don't bring it back."
"I keep feeling that you should ... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"Why, man, people will laugh when they hear that we call ourselves
brothers."
Donnegan ground his teeth and the old flush burned upon his face.
"I'll cut some throats if they do," he said, trembling with his passion.
"I can hear them say it. 'Lord Nick walked in on Donnegan prepared to
eat him up. He measured him up a... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"You did that?"
"Yes. Three years. I liked the careless life. For to tell you the truth,
I'm not worth much, Henry. I'm a loafer by instinct, and--"
"Not another word." There were tears in the eyes of Lord Nick, and he
frowned them away. "Confound it, Garry, you unman me. I'll be weeping
like a woman in a minute. But ... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
And clearly, indeed, those days were brought home to Lord Nick as he
glanced up, for Donnegan was staring at him in the same old, familiar
agony, mute and helpless.
33
At this Lord Nick very frankly frowned in turn. And when he frowned his
face grew marvelously dark, like some wrathful god, for there was a
noble, a ... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"When a man is condemned to death," said Lord Nick slowly, "suppose
somebody offers him anything in the world that he wants--palaces,
riches, power--everything except his life. What would the condemned man
say to a friend who made such an offer? He'd laugh at him and then call
him a traitor. Eh? But I don't laugh at y... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"The colonel won't touch him," said Donnegan.
"No?"
"No. I've told him what would happen if he does."
"Tush. Garry, Colonel Macon is the coldest-blooded murderer I've ever
known. But come out in the open, lad. You see that I'm ready to listen
to reason--except on one point. Tell me why you're so set on this
keeping of... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"Where he was stolen away. In Lebrun's."
"And what will be in Lebrun's?"
"Joe Rix to guard him and the old negress to nurse him."'
"No, no! Nelly Lebrun will be there!"
"Eh? Are you glancing at her, now?"
"Henry, you yourself know that Landis is mad about that girl."
"Oh, she's flirted a bit with him. Turned the fool'... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
Donnegan made no answer.
"If she comes to Lebrun's house, I'll see that Nell doesn't bother him
too much."
"Can you control her? If she wants to see this fool can you keep her
away, and if she goes to him can you control her smiling?"
"Certainly," said Lord Nick, but he flushed heavily.
Donnegan smiled.
"She's a devil... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"You take Landis?" he said softly.
"I do."
"Not," said Donnegan, "while I live!"
"You mean--" cried Lord Nick.
"I mean it!"
They had been swept back to the point at which that strangest of scenes
began, but this time there was an added element--horror.
"You'd fight?"
"To the death, Henry!"
"Garry, if one of us should ... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"Make a concession."
"A thousand, Garry, dear boy, if they'll get us clear from this horrible
mess."
"Only this. Leave The Corner for a few hours. Give me until--tonight.
Let me see Nelly during that time. You've had years to work on her. I
want only this time to put my own case before her."
"Thank heaven that we're c... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
Donnegan turned and came slowly toward him.
"The reason," said the colonel, "is that you probably won't receive a
very cheery reception. Unfortunate--very unfortunate. Lou has turned
wrong-headed for the first time in her life and she won't listen to
reason."
He chuckled softly.
"I never dreamed there was so much of m... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
Donnegan smiled wanly. But could he tell her, poor girl, the story of
Nelly Lebrun? Landis, in fear of his life, was no doubt at this moment
pouring out protestations of deathless affection.
"And they both consider you an archdemon for keeping Lord Nick away!"
Again Donnegan winced, and coughed behind his hand to cove... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
His eyes grew wistful.
"Between friends--as a son to his future father," he said softly, "can't
you tell me what the charm was that you used on. Nick to send him away?
I watched him come out of the shack. He was in a fury. I could see that
by the way his head thrust out between his big shoulders. And when he
went down... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
He watched her face intently. All the cabin was in deep shadow, but the
golden hair of the girl glowed as if with an inherent light of its own,
and the same light touched her face. Jack Landis was stricken with
panic: he stammered in a dreadful eagerness of fear.
"Don't leave me, Lou. You know what it means. He wants ... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"He has told you what? What?"
"About the woman you love."
"The woman I love?" echoed Donnegan, stupefied.
It seemed that Lou Macon could only name her with an effort that left
her trembling.
"The Lebrun woman," she said. "Jack has told me."
"Did you tell her that?" he asked Landis.
"The whole town knows it," stammered... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
To Lord Nick, he was as the bull terrier to the mastiff.
But above all she could not dislodge the memory of his strange talk with
her at Lebrun's. Not that she did not season the odd avowals of Donnegan
with a grain of salt, but even when she had discounted all that he said,
she retained a quivering interest. Somewher... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
The Pedlar lifted his gaunt head and stared at her without expression.
It was Joe Rix who answered.
"Nick's upstairs."
"Safe?"
"Not a scratch."
She sank into a chair with a sigh, but was instantly on edge again with
the second thought.
"Donnegan?" she whispered.
"Safe and sound," said Lester coldly.
She could not gath... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
There was a grim little silence after this.
"Maybe there was," said the Pedlar dryly. "Maybe there was a
showdown--and the wind-up of it is that Nick comes home meek as a
six-year-old broke down in front."
She stared at him, first astonished, and then almost frightened.
"You mean that Nick may have taken water?"
The t... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
She pressed close to him, more frightened than before. That Lord Nick
should have been driven to defend himself with words was almost too much
for credence.
"You know I don't believe it, Nick? You know that I'm not doubting you?"
But he brushed her hands roughly away.
"You want to know what it's all about? Then go ove... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
She set her teeth and her eyes gleamed with the thought. But
nevertheless she went on lavishing care in the preparation for that
night.
As she visioned the scene, the many curious eyes that watched her with
Donnegan; the keen envy in the faces of the women; the cold watchfulness
of the men, were what she pictured.
In ... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
She was about to put him off merely to make sure of her hold over him,
but something she saw in his face fascinated her. She could not play her
game. Milligan had slipped away before she knew it, and Donnegan was in
his place at the table. He was as much changed as Lord Nick, she
thought. Not that his clothes were les... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"But I threw my case bodily before him--the girl--her love for
Landis--and the fear which revolved around your own unruly eyes, you
know, if he were sent back to your father's house. I placed it all
before him. At first he was for fighting at once. But the story appealed
to him. He pitied the girl. And in the end he d... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
She closed her hand hard on the edge of the table to steady herself.
"And he made no move at you?"
"He restrained himself."
"Lord Nick?" gasped the incredulous girl.
"He is a gentleman," said Donnegan with a singular pride which she could
not understand.
He went on: "And unfortunately I fear that if you decide in favo... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
He had half lowered his eyes as he spoke; he had called up a vision, and
the face of Lou Macon hovered dimly between him and Nelly Lebrun. If all
that he spoke was a lie, let him be forgiven for it; it was the
golden-haired girl whom he addressed, and it was she who gave the tremor
and the fiber to his voice. And afte... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
Yet not a man or a woman stirred from his chair, for everyone knew that
if the long-delayed battle between these two gunfighters was at length
to take place, neither bullet was apt to fly astray.
But what happened completed the wreck of The Corner's nerves, for Lord
Nick walked quietly across the floor and sat down wi... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"Another thing: from this moment there's no blood tie between us. I've
found a brother and lost him in the same day. And if I ever cross you
again, Donnegan, I'll shoot you on sight. Remember, I'm not threatening.
I simply warn you in advance. If I were you, I'd get out of the country.
Avoid me, Donnegan, as you'd avo... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
In the old days not one of them would have dared to voice the question,
but now things were changing, and well Lord Nick could read the change
and its causes.
"Are you talking to me?" asked Nick, and he looked straight between the
eyes of Masters.
The glance of the other did not falter, and it maddened Nick.
"I'm talk... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"You think I'm through," went on Lord Nick. "Maybe I am--through with
you. You hear me talk?"
One by one, his eyes dared them, and one by one they took up the
challenge, struggled, and lowered their glances. He was still their
master and in that mute moment the three admitted it, the Pedlar last of
all.
Masters saw fi... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
And they knew it. All at once they crumbled and became clay in his
hands.
"Chief," said Joe Rix, the smoothest spoken of the lot, and one who was
supposed to stand specially well with Lord Nick on account of his
ability to bake beans, Spanish. "Chief, you've said a whole pile. You're
worth more'n the rest of us all ro... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"Booze," said Joe Rix to himself instantly.
For Donnegan was a wreck. The unshaven beard--it was the middle of
morning--was a reddish mist over his face. His eyes were sunken in
shadow. His hair was uncombed. He sat with his shoulders hunched up like
one who suffers from cold. Altogether his appearance was that of one... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
He pointed this remark with a nod to Donnegan.
"I'll give you a bit of free information," said the little man, with his
weary eyes lighted a little. "There's no man on the face of the earth
who could make Lord Nick back down."
Once more Joe Rix was shocked to the verge of gaping, but again he
exercised a power of marv... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
Joe Rix blinked once more, caught his breath, and fired his volley.
"Short talk is straight talk, mostly," he declared. "This is what Lester
and the rest of us want--the mines!"
"Ah?"
"Macon stole 'em. We got 'em back through Landis. Now we've got to get
'em back through the colonel himself. But we can't get at the co... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
He pushed his fat hand a little way across the table, as though the gold
even then were resting in it, a yellow tide of fortune.
"For which," said Donnegan, "I'm to step aside and let you at the
colonel?"
"Right."
Donnegan smiled.
"Wait," said Joe Rix. "I was makin' a first offer to see how you stood,
but you're right... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"Donnegan," muttered Joe Rix, "if we can't get you, we'll get rid of
you. You understand?"
But the other continued to smile.
It gave Joe Rix a shuddering feeling that someone was stealing behind
him to block his way to the door. He cast one swift glance over his
shoulder and then, seeing that the way was clear, he slu... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
Even a child could have strung these incidents into a chain of evidence
which pointed toward danger. Obviously the danger was not directly hers,
but then it must be directed at some one near to her. Her father? No, he
was more apt to be the mainspring of their action. Lord Nick? There was
nothing to gain by attacking ... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
She went down from her room; they were there still, only Joe Rix was
not with them. She went to the apartment where he and the other three of
Nick's gang slept and rapped at the door. He maintained his smile when
he saw her, but there was an uncertain quiver of his eyebrows that told
her much. Plainly he was ill at ea... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
She stared at him as though astonished.
"Do you think just the same as the rest of them?" she asked sadly. "Do
you mean to say that you're fooled just the same as Harry Masters and
the Pedlar and the rest of those fools--including Nick himself?"
Joe Rix was by no means willing to declare himself a fool beforehand. He
... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
It was too much for Nelly Lebrun. She knew that she could not face him
without betraying her guilt and therefore she did not attempt it. She
whirled and flung herself on her bed, face down, and began to sob
violently, suppressing the sounds. And so she waited.
Presently a hand touched her shoulder lightly.
"Go away," ... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"But I didn't write it," cried Nelly Lebrun, bewildered.
"Nelly," Joe Rix chuckled, flushing with pleasure, "you didn't. It was
me. I kind of had an idea that you wanted to get rid of this Donnegan,
and I was going to do it for you and then surprise you with the good
news."
"Joe, you forged it?"
"Don't bother sayin' p... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
And he began to check off the details of his plan.
40
The day passed and the night, but how very slowly for Nelly Lebrun; she
went up to her room early for she could no longer bear the meaning
glances which Joe Rix cast at her from time to time. But once in her
room it was still harder to bear the suspense as she wa... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"There is no one near," he said, "except the colonel and his daughter.
They are up the hillside, somewhere. Did you see them?"
"No. What in the world are they out for at this time of night?"
"Because the colonel only wakes up when the sun goes down. And now he's
out there humming to himself and never speaking a word t... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
He was thoughtful.
"Suppose they were to be met on the way?"
"You're mad to think of it!"
"But if they fail this time they'll try again. They must be taught a
lesson."
"Three men? Oh, my dear, my dear! Promise!"
"Very well. I shall do nothing rash. And I shall never forget that
you've come to tell me this and been in ... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
And when she reached her room again her heart was filled with a singing
happiness and a glorious knowledge that she had saved the man she loved.
And Donnegan himself?
He had seen Lou and her father: he had heard that low cry of pain; and
now he sat bowed again over his table, his face in his hands and a
raging devil i... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
He became suddenly grave.
"What are you saying, Nell?"
"Why, Joe told you, didn't he? They've drawn Donnegan out of town, and
now they're lying in wait for him. Yes, they must have him, by this
time. It's ten o'clock!"
A strangely tense exclamation broke from Lord Nick. "They've gone for
Donnegan?"
"Yes. Are you angry... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"They've done the business!" exclaimed Lord Nick. "And now, curse them,
I'll do theirs!"
But the girl could not speak. A black haze crossed before her eyes. Had
Donnegan gone out madly to fight the three men in spite of her warning?
The door opened. They stood in the doorway, and if they had seemed a
horrible sight pa... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"But I was too late. I took the straight cut for the ford, and when I
got there I found that Donnegan had been there before me. Joe Rix was
lyin' on the floor. When he got to the shack Donnegan was waitin' for
him. They went for their guns and Donnegan beat him to it. The hound
didn't shoot to kill. He plugged him thr... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"Get Rix to bed," was all he said, and he did not even glance at Nelly
Lebrun.
Masters glowered at him, and then silently obeyed, lifting Joe as a
helpless bulk, for the fat man was nearly fainting with pain. Not until
they had gone and he had closed the door after them and upon the murmurs
of the servants in the hall... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
The little man had just finished shaving and was getting back into his
coat while George carried out the basin of water. And Donnegan, as he
buttoned the coat, was nodding slightly to the rhythm of a song which
came from the cabin of the colonel near by. It was a clear, high music,
and though the voice was light it ca... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"Is it possible?" murmured Henry Reardon. "Is it possible that she loves
a man who despises her?"
"Not that! If any other man said this to me, I'd call for an explanation
of his meaning, Henry. No, no! I honor and respect her, I tell you. By
heaven, Nick, she has a thread of pure, generous gold in her nature!"
"Ah?"
"... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"Are you done?"
"No, no! I have more to say: I have a thousand things!"
"I shall not hear them"
"Henry, there is a black devil in your face. Beware of it."
"Who put it there?"
"It was not I."
"What power then?"
"Something over which I have no control."
"Are you trying to mystify me?"
"Listen!" And as Donnegan raised h... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
At that the blackness cleared slowly on the face of the big man; he
thrust his revolver into the holster.
"This time," he said, "there's no death. But sooner or later we meet,
Donnegan, and then, I swear by all that lives, I'll shoot you
down--without mercy--like a mad dog. You've robbed me; you've hounded
me: you've ... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
One thing at least he had done; he had taken the joy out of his life
forever.
And here, answering a rap at the door, he opened it upon Lou Macon. She
wore a dress of some very soft material. It was a pale blue--faded, no
doubt--but the color blended exquisitely with her hair and with the
flush of her face. It came to ... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
She did not answer, but half of her color left her face.
"Upon my word of honor there is no danger to a woman in the town."
"But some of the ruffians of Lord Nick--"
"If they dared to even raise their voices at you, they would hear from
him in a manner that they would never forget."
"Then you don't wish to go?"
She wa... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
"You see?" said Donnegan. "You would have been perfectly safe--even from
Lord Nick's ruffians. That was one of his men we passed back there."
"Yes. I'm safe with you," said the girl.
And when she looked up to him, the blood of Donnegan turned to fire.
Out of a shop door before them came a girl with a parcel under her ... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
Lord Nick was suddenly close; he had paused; his voice rang over the
street and struck upon Donnegan's ear as sounds come under water.
"Donnegan!"
"Aye!" called Donnegan softly.
"It's the time!"
"Aye," said Donnegan.
Then a huge body leaped before him; it was big George. And as he sprang
his gun went up with his hand ... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
He stood over the two motionless figures with a stony face.
"You saw it, boys," he said. "You know what I've borne from this fellow.
The big man pulled his gun first on me. I shot in self-defense. As
for--the other--it was a square fight."
"Square fight," someone answered. "You both went for your irons at the
same tim... | Gunman's Reckoning | Brand, Max | 1892 | 1944 | ['en'] | 93 | {'Man-woman relationships -- Fiction', 'Outlaws -- Fiction', 'Western stories', 'Frontier and pioneer life -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction'} | PG10066 | |
Proofreading Team.
THE MYSTERY OF THE BOULE CABINET
_A Detective Story_
BY
BURTON E. STEVENSON
With Illustrations by THOMAS FOGARTY
1911
To
A.B.M.
Fellow-Sherlockian
CONTENTS
I A CONNOISSEUR'S VAGARY
II THE FIRST TRAGEDY
III THE WOUNDED HAND
IV THE THUNDERBOLT
V GRADY TAKES A HAND
... | The Mystery of the Boule Cabinet: A Detective Story | Stevenson, Burton Egbert | 1872 | 1962 | ['en'] | 61 | {'Detective and mystery stories', 'Fiction'} | PG10067 |
Subsets and Splits
No community queries yet
The top public SQL queries from the community will appear here once available.