“He told me they were after Santiago, and they made it all the way out to the farm before they were killed.”

“The Swagman’s wrong,” said Father William firmly.

“What were their names?”

Father William shrugged. “Who knows? Nobody uses their real names out here—and especially not if they work for Santiago.” He paused. “Why are you so curious about them?”

“Inconsistencies bother me.”

“Then don’t talk to the Swagman. He’s never seen the farm in his life. Santiago has no reason to lie to you; the Swagman has no reason to tell you the truth.” He leaned forward. “What did he offer you?”

“Half of the artwork.”

“That’s very generous,” said the preacher. “I wonder how he planned to cheat you out of it?”

“I’m sure he’s given it considerable thought,” said Cain.

Moonripple emerged from the kitchen and approached Father William.

“How soon will you be wanting your dessert, sir?” she asked.

“Right now.” said Father William. “Will you join me, Sebastian?”

“Why not?” said Cain.

“You’re sure?” asked Father William, surprised.

“I could use a little snack.”

Father William looked as if his heart was about to break. Finally he turned to Moonripple. “My child, how long will it take you to cook up another chocolate cake?”

“I have three more in the kitchen, sir,” she replied.

“Good. Bring two of them out here.” He turned to Cain. “That way neither of us will leave the table hungry.”

“Moonripple’s right, you know,” said Cain.

“About what?”

“You’re going to eat yourself to death.”

“I need energy for the work ahead,” answered Father William seriously.

Cain shrugged. “It’s your life.”

“No, Sebastian. It belongs to the Lord, just as yours belongs to Santiago now.”

“What makes you think it does?” asked Cain.

“I don’t think so,” replied the preacher. “I know so.”

“I don’t know any such thing.”

“Yes, you do, Sebastian.” said Father William. “He chooses his recruits very carefully, and he’s never been wrong about one yet. You could have killed him last night or this morning and cashed the biggest reward you ever dreamed about; you didn’t. You could have dealt with the Swagman just now: you didn’t.” His booming voice became almost gentle. “Your mind may be undecided, but your heart knows where you stand.”

Cain looked momentarily surprised.

“I suppose it does, at that.” he said thoughtfully.

25.

A riddle inside an enigma,

Wrapped up in a puzzle or two.

What man fits these specifications?

The King of the Outlaws—that’s who!

“How did your meeting with the Swagman go?” asked Santiago, looking up from his book as Cain joined him on the veranda.

“About as expected.”

Santiago seemed amused. “He was that obvious?”

“He was that hungry,” replied Cain.

“By the way,” said Santiago, “I sent one of my men to Silent Annie’s house for your belongings. I hope you don’t mind.”