"That's my business," said he curtly.
The sharp answer aroused the sheriff's resentment.
"Very well, if you're foolish enough to take that stand, Clipperton. You'll have an examination this afternoon, but you might as well waive it, if you're going to keep that attitude."
"He'll have a lawyer to look after his interests, Mr. McKibben," spoke up Matt.
"Who'll pay for the lawyer?" asked Clip, turning on Matt.
"I will! Dangerfield got you into this, and I'll spend every cent paid to me for his capture to get you clear."
Clip stretched out his hands quietly, the handcuffs rattling. Matt clasped his chum's palm loyally, and Clip turned away. McKibben motioned to Leffingwell, and the prisoner was led out of the room.
"You're certainly a mighty good friend of Clipperton's," said the sheriff to Matt, "but he don't deserve it."
"You don't know him as well as I do," said Matt. "He could explain a whole lot, if he would."
"Then why don't he do it?"