The sheriff laid a trembling hand on the coiled rope.

"How'd you get this in, damn you ?" "That rope?
Oh, a fellow shoved it through the bars.

Wanted me to saw my way out and go with him, I reckon.

I didn't want to argue with him, so I just took it and didn't let on I wasn't comin'.

Wasn't that right?
Why, I thought you'd be pleased! I couldn't have any way of knowin' that you'd take it like this." "Shoved it in through a third-story window ?" Pete's ingenuous face took on an injured look.