"They got the idea back home that you can help in the McBride matter,"
explained the sheriff again. "I see that you know he's been murdered."

"Yes, I knew that before I left Mount Hope," rejoined North.

"Did you, though?" said the sheriff briefly, and this admission of
North's appeared to furnish him with food for reflection.

"Well, what do I know that will be of use to you?" asked North
impatiently.

"You ain't to make any statement to me, John," returned the sheriff
hastily.

"Do you mean you expect me to go back to Mount Hope?" inquired North in
a tone of mingled wonder and exasperation.

The sheriff nodded.

"That's the idea, John," he said placidly.

"What if I refuse to go back?"

The sheriff looked pained.

"Oh, you won't do that--what's the use?"

"Do you mean--" began North savagely, but Conklin interposed.

"Never mind what I mean, that's a good fellow; say you'll take the next