“Kate Rider?” Bess stared at him across the table. “Are you sure?”
“I saw her as plainly as I see you,” Smith said. “You’ll remember that I was responsible for the death of man, Lightning Bowlt, years ago.”
“I remember,” Bess shook her head. “Dear God in heaven. She’s the red-headed woman who’s been causing all the trouble. Our past has returned to haunt us.”
“It seems so,” Smith said.
“She had Peter killed.” Bess gripped the table’s edge so tightly her knuckles gleamed white. She controlled her anger when she saw Madge standing at the door, holding her doll. “You’d better get to bed, Madgie. It’s late.”
“Yes.” Madge looked from Bess to Smith and back. “Who’s Kate Rider?”
“Never you mind, Madge.” Bess rose and took Madge’s hand. “Come on; I’ll tuck you up.”
Smith poured himself a gl
