The Reluctant Executioner — J.R. Roberts

Outside the town of Fate, Nebraska, Clint Adams encounters a stranger pinned down by 5 attackers, apparently trying to kill him. After driving the assailants off, Clint discovers that the man is a professional hangman, on his way to Fate to execute a young man convicted of murder. He agrees to accompany the man to keep him safe. Along the way, the Gunsmith learns the longtime hangman has become a somewhat reluctant executioner and is considering a change of profession following this job.

Upon arrival in town, Clint discovers the prisoner might be innocent. He decides to investigate, which could possibly free an innocent man and give the hangman more time to decide whether or not he wants to continue in his profession. However, there are still those who believe the only way to stop the execution is to kill the hangman -- and the Gunsmith! Clint must work his way through 2 town factions, those for the hanging and those against it, in order to not only prove the prisoner's possible innocence but to stay alive long enough to do it.