"Murderer's known, is he?" said Scattergood, leaning forward, and eying the sheriff.
"Abner, of course. Who else would 'a' done it? Hain't he been a-threatenin' right along?"
"Anybody see him fire the shot, Sheriff? Any witnesses?"
"Nary witness. Nothin' but the body a-layin' where it fell."
"What was the manner of this shootin', Sheriff?"
"All I know's what I've told you."
"Gatherin' a posse, Ulysses? Who be you selectin'?"
"Various and sundry," said the sheriff.
"Any objection to deputizin' me?" said Scattergood. "Any notion I might help some?"
"Glad to have you, Scattergood.... Got to hustle. Most likely the murderer's escapin' this minute."