''You asked my business, '' remarked Dasher, ''and I told you that I'm a trouble-shooter. I shoot trouble - with this.'' He waved the .45. ''And you're trouble. My client asked that you both be removed, and I'm most obliging, you see, at a price.''

''Why?'' cried Marian. ''Why should he want us killed?''

''I don't know, '' said Dasher. ''I have no idea. Those things are never of interest to me. I have clients all over the country who send people to me. I never ask why. I ask, how much will you pay? That's what I ask. Some people come higher than others. It depends on their importance. And believe me, this is not an expensive job, as they go. You'll hardly be missed.''

He called to his assistant. ''Go get the tarp. The gentleman will go first. I'm in no hurry with the lady.'' He gave Marian a lewd grin.