“Not counting doctors and technicians and the like.”

“Perhaps fifty.”

“And on the farm?”

“Fifteen, counting myself.”

“That won’t stop the Angel.”

“I know. Hopefully you will be all that we need.”

“I haven’t said I’m staying.”

“Then perhaps Father William...”

“I doubt it.” Cain paused. “By the way, there’s one other bit of professional advice I can give you.”

“Yes?”

“If you ever leave Safe Harbor, dye your hair.”

Jacinto looked surprised. “I will,” he said. “Thank you.”

They caught up with Santiago shortly thereafter, and the three men walked the remaining distance to the house together, Santiago pointing out various facets of the farm to Cain as they passed them. Father William was waiting for them on the veranda.

“Good morning, Santiago,” said the preacher. “Jacinto.” He turned to Cain. “Hello again, Sebastian. Have you enjoyed your stay?”

“It’s been interesting,” replied Cain.

“Are you getting along well with your host?” he asked sharply.

“So far.”

“I’m glad to hear it.”

“I was sure you would be.”

“I understand you want to talk to Sebastian.” said Santiago. “If you wish, we’ll leave you two alone.”

“That won’t be necessary.” said Father William with a curious smile. “Actually, I’m just here to deliver a message from a new arrival.”

“The Angel?” asked Cain, suddenly tense.

Santiago shook his head. “He’s out by the Cantrell system.”

“Who is it, then?” persisted Cain.

“Why don’t you just read this?” said Father William, handing him a folded sheet of very expensive stationery.

Cain saw that it was written in an elegant, near calligraphic script, and read it aloud:

“The Jolly Swagman sends Greetings and Felicitations to his Partner, Sebastian Cain, and cordially invites him to the Barleycorn Tavern for aperitifs at four this afternoon, at which time they will renew their Friendship and also discuss certain Matters of Business.”

Cain tossed the note onto a table. “That’s the Swagman, all right,” he said.

“Silent Annie urged me to kill him while I had the chance,” said Santiago. “I think she may have been right.”

“Is there any reply?” asked Father William, still amused.

“I’ll deliver it in person,” said Cain grimly.

24.

He robs and he plunders, he kills and he loots.

He stealthily sneaks up and suddenly shoots.

He never forgets and he never forgives;

He never relents while an enemy lives.

One of the things Black Orpheus never understood was why the Jolly Swagman, who was his friend, refused to give him any information about Santiago, denying him even a physical description. He was sure the Swagman knew Santiago, had overheard two of his associates say as much, but that was the one subject upon which the loquacious criminal refused to speak.