“I had a letter of introduction to him from a friend in Texas. When he knew who I was, he decided he couldn't afford to have me lynched without trying to save me.”
“I see. And the map?”
“This was the only part of the country in which I would be safe from capture. He knew I had a claim on some of the Cedar Mountain people, because it was to help them I had got into trouble.”
“Yes, I can see that.” Arlie nodded quickly. “Of course, that is just what the sheriff would think.”
“Folks can always see what they want to, Arlie,” Jed commented. “Now, I can't see all that, by a lot.”
“It isn't necessary you should, Mr. Briscoe,” Fraser retorted.
“Or else I see a good deal more, lieutenant,” Jed returned, with his smooth smile. “Mebbe the sheriff helped you on your way because you're such a good detective. He's got ambitions, Brandt has. So has Hilliard, the prosecuting attorney. Happen to see him, by the way?”
“Yes.”
Jed nodded. “I figured you had. Yes, it would be Hilliard worked the scheme out, I expect.”
“You're a good deal of a detective yourself, Mr. Briscoe,” the Texan laughed hardily. “Perhaps I could get you a job in the rangers.”