Who is Splayfoot / Henry J. Porter from The Nick Adams Stories and what is their importance?

Splayfoot (Mr. Packard's nickname for him, on account of his large feet) or Henry J. Porter (his proclaimed real name, though Mr. Packard does not believe it) is a warden from "down state" who, with Evans, is looking for Nick who has violated gaming laws by shooting a buck. Splayfoot, according to Mr. Packard, is dangerous—he once framed a man for a murder which he apparently committed—and Mr. Packard worries that he will harm Nick.