When he found out who you were, he knew you were at outs with the law.

He knew you as an experienced desert man.

He had you placed as a valuable member of their gang, if you could be won over and persuaded to join them.
"As soon as possible he got you behind the wheel--further protection to himself if he should meet an officer who was straight.

He felt you out on the subject of a partnership.

And when you met Smiling Lou--well, this Kenner had decided to take no chance with you.