صفحة 34 من 439

Nevertheless he recognized battle as inevitable. Friends of his

though they were, he knew these sturdy plainsmen would never

submit to be foiled in their purpose by one man. In the momentary

silence before the clash the quiet voice of the prisoner made

itself heard.

"Just a moment, gentlemen. I don't want you spilling lead over

me. I'm the wrong man, and I can prove it if you'll give me time.

Here's the key to my room at the hotel in San Antonio. In my

suit-case you'll find letters that prove--"

"We don't need them. I've got proof right here," cut in Fraser,

remembering.

He slipped a hand into his coat pocket and drew out two

photographs. "Boys, here are the pictures and descriptions of the

two men that escaped from Yuma the other day. I hadn't had time

to see this gentleman before he spoke, being some busy explaining

the situation to you, but a blind jackass could see he don't

favor either Kinney or Struve, You're sure barking up the wrong

tree."