“Well, to your cabin we go; and, boys, you can return to the tavern, and I will come in and see you to-morrow. My man, do you want to join our party in going west?” Tabor had turned to Old Negotiate, who answered promptly: “I’ll bet yer ther Gambler Guide agin’ Panther Kate I does. I hes a horse as is lightnin’, an’ Billy knows I is good on ther shoot.” “Very well,” said Ben Tabor. “Go up to ther tavern and bunk in with my pards; but not a word of our night’s work, mind you.” Tabor called to Seven-foot Harry to throw the bound prisoner up behind him; and, with Buffalo Bill riding on one side and Panther Kate on the other, they started for the ranch of the latter. It was a small, stoutly built, two-roomed cabin, with several outhouses near by. Two huge dogs acted as guardians, and these greeted the party with savage barks. A word from Panther Kate quieted them. She dismounted and threw open her door; and, carrying the prisoner in their arms, the Texan and Buffalo Bill entered. “Lay him there, please; here, Satan, watch this man, and if he attempts to free himself take hold of him.” The huge dog seemed to understand fully his mistress’ command, for he crouched down by Kent King, who lay bound hand and foot upon the floor. “I think we can leave him now, Mr. Cody,” said Tabor. “I think so, too; good night, Kate,” answered the scout. “Good night, gentlemen,” she said; “I thank you for saving me from those villains to-night, but more for bringing me face to face with that man.” She pointed to the prisoner, who had closed his eyes to avoid the stare of the dog. Mounting their horses, Buffalo Bill and Tabor rode rapidly away. Arriving at his own cabin, the scout turned to the lamp to examine the package sent him by Captain Dash. To his surprise he saw that it contained a large and beautiful diamond, and upon a piece of paper was written in the Texas chief’s hand: “Load one chamber of your pet revolver with this diamond as a bullet; mark which it is, and keep it to send into the heart of Kent King, the gambler, whenever you again meet him. “I have the mate of the stone I send you, and keep it for the same purpose should he cross my path. “CAPTAIN DASH, of the Revolver Riders.” CHAPTER XI. THE HEART OF A WOMAN. “While there’s life there’s hope, so I’ll not despair yet; but I would rather be at the stake than facing this monster, whose eyes glare into mine whenever I open them. Bound as I am, it is enough to drive me mad; and yet I dare not appeal to Kate for mercy; no, no, for a woman’s love turned to hate is deadlier than the serpent’s sting.” Thus thought Kent King as he gave a glance toward the door through which Panther Kate had gone into the other room. As he turned his head, Satan gave an ominous growl, and once more he closed his eyes.