There were thirteen steps. He went up slowly but steadily, then hesitated as he reached the top. He swallowed hard, took his final step and looked out over the crowd. It was a mass of hostile faces, shouting and shaking their fists, except for the three closest to the gallows. They were silent and still as they stared up at him, and his eyes filled with tears. He had known, even while he was pleading with them to stay away, they would never leave him to face this alone. He gazed at each in turn, nodding to the marshal as he put an arm around Miss Kitty. Matthew nodded back, his arm tightening. For Miss Kitty he managed a smile and his heart warmed as she smiled back. They would be all right. He turned his attention to Doc as the rope was put around his neck and he was asked if he had any last words. He shook his head, his eyes clinging to Doc's-take care of yoreself, you old scutter! The old man pressed forward, the bond between them almost tangible. A hood was slipped over his head, shutting out the light, and the last thing he heard was the thud as the trapdoor was released...