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Mexican jails were not renowned for their comfort, Adam thought, trying

vainly to find a position that eased his aching bones. The thin mattress
provided almost no relief at all. He looked around his cell and grimaced in
distaste at the bleak surroundings, wondering where things had gone so very
wrong…

His great adventure, leaving the Ponderosa and striking out afresh had all
crumbled into dust. Adam could almost taste the bitter ashes of defeat in
his dry mouth – or was that the after-effect of an evening’s over-indulgence
in polque?

A wry smile twisted Adam’s mouth. No matter. Things could hardly get any
worse, after all. All right, he was temporarily out of funds and could not
secure his own release, but surely he could persuade the Mexican authorities
to telegraph the Ponderosa? It had been a long time since he had left the
ranch, but Adam knew his family would never let him down.

The sound of boot heels clicking impatiently across the stone floor broke
Adam’s train of thought. A groan escaped from his tightly pursed mouth.
Things had just got infinitely worse. Wearily, he raised his eyes and stared
dully into the face of his nemesis.

“It’s good to see you again, Adam!” Clay Stafford said jovially. He swung
the key to the cell door back and forth in a tantalising fashion and smiled
happily.


Claire

 

 

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