"Hey! You're the feller who jest left word fer some one at the Hope So ?" he asked.
"Yes," I replied, while with my left hand I patted the neck of my horse, holding him still.
"Sampson wants me bad, eh ?" "Reckon there's only one man who wants you more." Steadily, I met his piercing gaze.

This was a rustler not to be long victim to any ruse.

I waited in cold surety.
"You thet cowboy, Russ ?" he asked.
"I was--and I'm not!" I replied significantly.
The violent start of this violent outlaw was a rippling jerk of passion.
"What'n hell!" he ejaculated.
"Bill, you're easy." "Who're you ?" he uttered hoarsely.
I watched Snecker with hawk-like keenness.

"United States deputy marshal.

Bill, you're under arrest!" He roared a mad curse as his hand clapped down to his gun.