But Bob finished in ample time to enjoy a leisurely walk back to the train. When he reentered the day coach he was surprised to find another occupant, a large, heavy-boned man with a faded mustache and thinning hair. What surprised Bob even more was to see a badge on the other’s vest and he strolled forward through the car. His eyes opened a little wider when he saw that the badge worn by the other said, “Sheriff.”
The water cooler was a convenient place to stop and Bob, studying the other man in leisure, drank two cups of water.
Suddenly the sheriff spoke.
“Now that you’ve about sized me up, what’s on your mind, Bud?”
Bob almost fell over backwards for he had tried to make his observation of the other man altogether casual.
“Nothing,” he managed to reply, but the word failed to carry conviction.
“Not trying to dodge the law, are you?” asked the sheriff, and Bob noticed that a perfectly capable looking gun was holstered under the other’s right shoulder.
“No,” said Bob.
“Then why are you carrying a gun?”
Bob started, almost guiltily, and his face flushed.