Out of habit Dusty checked his Winchester to make sure a round was in the chamber, and then eased himself forward, keeping out of view of the front window. It was obvious to Dusty, because of the ruckus Little Bear was causing on the porch, that whoever was inside--if anybody--was forewarned, so the element of surprise was not in Dusty's favor. With these thoughts in mind, Dusty said to no one in particular, "Oh well," and he leaped to the porch, with his rifle at the ready. In an instant he was through the partially open door, ready for whatever consequence awaited him inside. |