The Man They Hanged — Robert J. Steelman

Jay and Tuck are two drifters who happen into Mohave City as if it were any other southwest mining town. But what they discover is a place unlike any other they've seen. Not only is there no work for them, but there isn't a drop of courtesy to be had. So they leave as fast as they blew in - but not before Tuck's light fingers get the better of him, and he steals a silver knife and fork from the one old man who's shown them some kindness. Soon the pair of them are caught and sentenced to be hanged for the crime. At three in the afternoon on the Fourth of July, the deputy springs the trapdoor, and the rest is history - but not the end. For the next stranger to enter Mohave City is one Dr. Jay Carmody...