B. M. Bower

“ Bill said between clenched jaws. “He's the only man on earth that can do it. He pulled the robbery they laid onto me and if he don't come clean I'll kill him inch by inch!”
JACK HUNTLEY turned his head and sent a glance to Bill's face; shifted his eyes to Abington's, that were black as ebony and quite as hard; turned again to Bill and met a cold stare that shriveled his courage to whining cowardice.
“Don't you, Bill! I—I'm done for! You can't hurt a dying man! You wouldn't have the heart!” ”

“ It would make a splendid hideout, Bill. There's a spring, and cracks in the rock let in sunlight, a perfect retreat. Impossible to come at one from the rear——”
Abington paused and his shoulders moved involuntarily. He was thinking of the Pool of Evil Death. “I'll show you the place. When I am through in this country you'll find it useful, no doubt.”
“Not unless Jack Huntley dies. If I can ever get him in somehow to the sheriff, I won't need to hide out in the hills. Unless,” Bill added dubiously, “they cinch me for that car I run over the cliff.” ”

“ He drew Abington to one side, out of hearing of the wounded man. “That's Jack Huntley, professor. He's got to be put in shape for the trip in to Vegas. It's a matter of life and death. So do what you can—I know you're a pretty good doctor when it comes to a pinch. I'll be right back. Well—hang onto him, professor, till I get back with the stuff. Don't let him sneak out on you!”
“If he does,” said Abington grimly, “it will be because he sneaks into the next world. I'll try and not let that happen, Bill, my lad.” ”