I've known the Major a long time.

He isn't the man to protect a red-handed murderer." "Aw, bah! How do you know I won't?
How do you know he's a murderer?
You make me sick!" declared the Major hotly.

Breslin was an honest, well-meaning farmer; the Major was furious to find such a man allied with Foy's foes--certain sign that other decent blockheads would do likewise.

"Matt Lisner tells you Kit Foy is a murderer and you believe him implicitly: Matt Lisner tells you I'm a liar--but you stumble at that.

Why?
Because you think about me--that's why! Why don't you try that plan about Foy--thinking ?" "But Foy's run away," stammered Breslin, disconcerted.
"Run away, hell! He's not here, you mean.