Sanderson stepped out from the group slightly, and the horsemen came to a halt near him.

A big man, plainly the leader of the strangers, dismounted and approached Sanderson.
The man radiated authority.

There was a belligerent gleam in his eyes as he looked Sanderson over, an inspection that caused Sanderson's face to redden, so insolent was it.

Behind him the big man's companions watched, their faces expressionless, their eyes alert.
"Who's runnin' this outfit ?" demanded the man.
"You're talkin' at the boss," said Sanderson.
"I'm the sheriff of Colfax County," said the other, shortly.

"There's been a complaint made about you.