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168 out mysterious messages. In a moment however, he dropped his hand to a cold cigarette and nodded.

"When does Number Five get in?" Steele asked him.

"Smash-up on the line," said the railroad man. He cocked an eye at the clock. "About two hours and a half yet." "Can you get a message across to Thunder River for me?"

"I can send it on to White Rock and they can relay it from there by telephone."

Steele scribbled upon the yellow pad which was handed him and the message was promptly put on the wire. It was signed "Your admiring Bill," and ran:

"You're Bill Steele?" said the agent, looking at him with a growing interest. And, with a grin, "You're in luck; Number Five carries a dining car this time of year!"

Coming out into the sun Steele found that Embry had gone about his business and that Jim Banks was waiting for him.

"They've got the count on you this trip, Billy," offered the sheriff, coming forward to meet him. "It's like you to go start something for a meal and the fun of it. Take a tip from me and don't do it. I'll slip you a sandwich myself and a bottle of beer if you'll just move easy and keep your mouth shut."