Pagina 194 di 439

"That isn't my responsibility, but speaking merely as a private

citizen, I should say, No."

"What would you do with him then?"

"Why not take him up to your house?"

"Wouldn't be safe a minute, or in any other house in town."

"Then get out of town with him."

"It can't be done. I'm watched."

Hilliard shrugged.

The ranger's keen eyes went from one to another. He saw that what

the lawyer needed was some personal interest to convert him into

a partisan. From his pocket he drew another letter and some

papers.

"If you doubt that I am Lieutenant Fraser you can wire my captain

at Dallas. This is a letter of congratulation to me from the

Governor of Texas for my work in the Chacon case. Here's my

railroad ticket, and my lodge receipt. You gentlemen are the

officers in charge. I hold you personally responsible for my

safety--for the safety of a man whose name, by chance, is now

known all over this country."