The man at the bathhouse was more relaxed than the clerk at the general store. He glanced up when Sharps entered. “You Browne?”
“Yes, sir.”
“Your pardner’s waiting for you in the back room. He’s already paid for two baths, soap, and towels. I’ve gotta get home for supper. I’ll be back in about an hour to shut the place down. See you’re done before then.”
“Right. Thanks.” Sharps waited for him to leave, then locked the door behind him and went into the back room. As the man had stated, two tin tubs were set up, along with a couple of jugs, steam from the water rising in gentle wisps. Steve’s clothes were in a neat pile in the corner, and beside them was the banjo Pa had made for him.
Steve sat in the nearest tub, his hair-dusted legs draped over the sides. Sharps came closer, and he swa
