Quicksilver Passion (149 page)

Oh?” Cherokee stood up.
I think I’ll go on out there myself, Doc.” He hesitated.
Would you mind . . .”

Of course not.” Doc jumped to his feet.
I’ll get a saddle horse and tell Emma where I’m going, then I’ll ride out there with you.”

They rode out to Mosquito Gulch.

Careful, Doc,” Cherokee cautioned when Doc said they were almost to the gully.
Old Bill has always been so afraid of claim jumpers, he’s liable to shoot first and ask questions later.”

I remember!” Doc said, thinking of the time Silver had been shot.
Hallo! Hallo! It’s Doc and Cherokee!”

No answer. They waited a long moment, then shouted again. Still no answering shout.

Doc pulled at his mustache.
I’ve come out to see them once or twice in the past, they always come running when they hear my shout. Let’s ride on in.”

Doc had a strange feeling that something was wrong because he saw no curl of smoke drifting in the direction of the cabin. Up ahead on the trail, he saw what looked like a bundle of old clothes.
I see something, Cherokee.”

He dismounted and walked toward it, dread rising up in his heart.
Oh my God
.

Doc, what is it?” Cherokee dismounted.

It’s Willie, or what’s left of him.” Doc knelt and looked at the old man.
He—he’s been dead awhile, I’d say.”