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"I hope not, Mr. Johnson. In this neck of woods a man is liable

to get himself disliked if he shoots off his mouth too prevalent.

Folks that don't like our ways can usually find a door open out

of Lost Valley--if they don't wait too long!"

"I'm some haidstrong. I reckon I'll stay." He scowled at Jed with

disfavor, meeting him eye to eye. But presently the rigor of his

gaze relaxed. Me remembered that he was a fugitive from justice,

and at the mercy of this man who had so far guessed his secret.

Putting a temporary curb on his bilious jealousy, he sulkily

added: "Leastways, if there's no objection, Mr. Briscoe. I ain't

looking for trouble with anybody."