“It’s kinda hard to git straight grain stuff these days,” said the sheriff seriously. “I ’member when I was runnin’ a tradin’ post down Yuma way, I used to git the best danged boxwood for whittlin’. I don’t suppose it runs so good these days.”
“Ben and Pete are both friends of yours,” said Ben thoughtfully.
“Uh-huh. I like ’em both.”
“A killin’ might start trouble. The boys has kinda took sides.”
“I s’pose.”
“Bud and Pete are both good shots.”
“Yea-a-ah—purty good shots. Awful damn’ fools in lotsa ways, but good shots. Uh-hu-u-uh. Well, I’ve got to write me some signs, Ben. It’s two hours till sundown.”
“I thought you’d like to know about it, Sheriff.”
“Yeah, I do. Thank you kindly.”
“You’re welcome.”