Many powerful gangs have developed that way out here.

He could not control them.

He became involved with them.
"And eventually their dealings became deliberately and boldly dishonest.
That meant the inevitable spilling of blood sooner or later, and so he grew into the leader because he was the strongest.

Whatever he is to be judged for I think he could have been infinitely worse." When he ceased speaking I had the same impulse that must have governed Steele--somehow to show Sampson not so black as he was painted, to give him the benefit of a doubt, to arraign him justly in the eyes of Rangers who knew what wild border life was.
"Steele, bring Diane in!" I called.

"I've something to tell her." They came quickly, concerned probably at my tone.