This last was directed at Steve and he shrugged. “He has some innovative ideas that will work if he doesn’t get caught up in politicians’ greed. If Brandon is the senator who has offered to fund his railroad, he’ll end up getting burned.”

“Yes, well, as you have assumed, that is exactly who has made an offer. A very generous offer, I might add. Poker, gentlemen?”

Without waiting for agreement, Bishop shuffled a pack of cards and began to deal, his expression bland in the glow of soot-grimed lanterns.

Steve picked up his cards and studied them idly. “I suggested he go to Richard King. He’s connected with Mifflin Kenedy, and both men are shrewd businessmen. Tough, maybe, but more honest than the senator. Brandon just wants feeder lines to his coal mines, he doesn’t care how he gets them.”

“Silver.” Bishop glanced up, eyes hooded. “Not just coal mines, silver mines. He’s sitting on a fortune in ore and pretending he’s dealing in coal.”

Paco whistled softly. “No wonder he’s anxious!”

“Yes, getting the ore out by train would be the most efficient—and private—method, as well as the safest.”

“Does the Mexican government know he’s mining silver instead of coal?”

“I have no doubt that there are a few officials who are well aware of it, and probably on his payroll. But Senator Brandon has been clever enough to pay them well for their silence and cooperation. His biggest problem has been getting the ore out of Mexico and across the border without being apprehended by either country. Of course, we are aware of his activities on a confidential level. At this time, we cannot interfere without possibly alienating Lerdo or Díaz, both of whom have their hands full just dealing with the struggle for power.

“But we are trying to keep informed about Brandon’s operations as best we can, while being discreet. A full house, gentlemen.”

As Bishop raked in the small pile of coins in the middle of the table, Paco tilted his chair back on the two rear legs, frowning. “So what is it we’re supposed to do? Sign on with the mine? Find out what’s going on?”

“No, that is too risky. You two are known to Brandon, and possibly to men in his employ. Besides, we have some men there already. It would be best if we had someone familiar with Brandon and his methods, someone in his confidence, perhaps, who might be able to discover his future plans. I know that the senator has renewed his acquaintance with Sam Murdock.”

Silence fell. Steve glared at Bishop across the table. It was just like him to throw in that name while raking in the pot! Damn the man, he had ice water in his veins and the damndest luck. He leaned forward to take more cards, words more casual than he felt.