“You don’t know me. Least you don’t know all about that thing. ’Tain’t robbery altogether⁠—it’s revenge !” and a wicked light flamed in his eyes. “I’ll need your help in it. When it’s finished⁠—then Texas. Go home to your Nance and your kids, and stand by till you hear from me.”

“Well⁠—if you say so; what’ll we do with this⁠—bury it again?”

“Yes. [Ravishing delight overhead.] No ! by the great Sachem, no! [Profound distress overhead.] I’d nearly forgot. That pick had fresh earth on it! [The boys were sick with terror in a moment.] What business has a pick and a shovel here? What business with fresh earth on them? Who brought them here⁠—and where are they gone? Have you heard anybody?⁠—seen anybody? What! bury it again and leave them to come and see the ground disturbed? Not exactly⁠—not exactly. We’ll take it to my den.”