"I see. And the map?"

"This was the only part of the country in which I would be safe from
capture. He knew I had a claim on some of the Cedar Mountain people,
because it was to help them I had got into trouble."

"Yes, I can see that." Arlie nodded quickly. "Of course, that is just
what the sheriff would think."

"Folks can always see what they want to, Arlie," Jed commented. "Now,
I can't see all that, by a lot."

"It isn't necessary you should, Mr. Briscoe," Fraser retorted.

"Or else I see a good deal more, lieutenant," Jed returned, with his
smooth smile. "Mebbe the sheriff helped you on your way because you're
such a good detective. He's got ambitions, Brandt has. So has
Hilliard, the prosecuting attorney. Happen to see him, by the way?"

"Yes."

Jed nodded. "I figured you had. Yes, it would be Hilliard worked the
scheme out, I expect."

"You're a good deal of a detective yourself, Mr. Briscoe," the Texan
laughed hardily. "Perhaps I could get you a job in the rangers."

"There may be a vacancy there soon," Jed agreed.

"What's the use of talking that way, Jed? Are you threatening Mr.