In this respect Westcott realised, fully what he was up against, for while it was quietly known that Lacy was a questionable character, his name associated with the leadership of a desperate gang, yet his wealth and power rendered him a decidedly dangerous opponent.
As proprietor of the biggest saloon, dance-hall, and gambling den in Haskell, he wielded an influence not to be ignored--especially as the sheriff of the county was directly indebted to him for his office.

A dangerous man himself, with the reputation of a killer, he had about him others capable of any crime to carry out his orders, confident that his wealth and influence would assure their safety.

To such as he the stealing of a mine was a mere incident.
This was the situation confronting Westcott as he crouched behind a rock on the black hillside, endeavouring to decide upon a course of action.

The events of the last few hours had almost entirely forced aside memory of the girl at the hotel--and her mission.

He was fighting now for his own life, his own future--and fighting alone.