“I mean that people are actin’ curious—them sports inside—” he jerked his thumb at the Boosters’ Club behind him, “and the authorities.”

“How do you mean—curious?”

“Don’t show any interest—throw a wet blanket over everything as if they wanted to discourage me—I’m not sure that they’re not tryin’ to block me.”

“But why would they?” Teeters looked incredulous.

Lingle shrugged a shoulder.

“I don’t know yet, but I’ve got my own opinion.”

“But you won’t lay down,” Teeters pleaded, “even if they pull against you?”

“Not to notice!” the deputy replied grimly.