Quicksilver Passion (167 page)

The crowd roared approval.

Now, men,” Jake shouted,
let’s break this meetin’ up. We’ve wasted enough time. Tell the colonel that I’ll be joinin’ him later, ’cause he probably could use a good scout who really knows the country and Injuns.”

Cherokee stood with little Keso, waiting for the crowd to disperse. He watched the vague outline of Jake Dallinger’s form move down the street and realized Todd Shaw still stood there. He walked over to him slowly.
Shaw, I’m Cherokee Evans.” He held out his hand.

You may have more guts than brains, but I admire you for it.”

The other shook his warmly and laughed.
I have to say what I think, although it’s not a popular opinion to have right now. I see you have Indian blood. Are you by any chance Cheyenne or Arapaho?”

No, but a Cheyenne Dog Soldier saved my life, so I feel indebted to them.” Keso pulled at his hand.
Oh, and this is my friend, Keso, who is helping me since I can’t see.”

I think I’ve seen you on the streets, Keso,” Todd said in a friendly tone.
Can I do anything to help you, Evans?”

What can you tell me about the Duchess’s Palace?”

Shaw grunted.
Not much. It’s a regular den of iniquity and getting worse since Dallinger came to town a few days ago. He’s been a silent partner all these years, or so the gossip says. Can’t imagine why the Duchess would be involved with white trash like him. If Denver gets enough of it, they’re liable to mob together and burn the place down. It’s happened before.”

Cherokee suddenly didn’t want to hear anymore.
If you aren’t doing anything right now, I’d be much obliged if you’d tell me about Denver, show me around.”

Be glad to.”