It seemed to him that the eyes of the stranger were sharp, suspicious eyes, and that they dwelt upon him altogether too attentively for a perfectly justifiable interest even in the box of grub.
Black coffee, drunk hot and strong, gave the world a brighter aspect.
Casey decided that the situation was not so desperate, after all.

Easy enough to bluff it out--easiest thing in the world! He would just go along as if there wasn't a thing on his mind heavier than his thinning, sandy hair.

No man living had any right or business snooping around in his car, unless he carried a badge of an officer of the law.

Even with the badge, Casey told himself sternly, a man would have to show a warrant before he could touch a finger to his outfit.
Over his third cup of coffee Casey eyed the stranger guardedly.

He did not look like an officer.