human
Why, Jake! he cried.
gpt
You look as if you'd been up against it! When did you come down?
human
This afternoon, he answered.
gpt
Took the river for it with two of the boys, and a mighty tough time we had in getting through. Water was on the rock portages and we had to shove round through the bush. It didn't seem worth while getting out my glad rags, as I have to take the new boss up early to-morrow.
human
Looks as if he'd got lost, said the other.
gpt
I guess you heard he left for Duck Island with two of the Company's roustabouts day before yesterday. They hadn't much grub with them, but he allowed he'd be back this morning.
human
What did he go to Duck Island for?
gpt
To prospect the fireclay bed. Seemed to think the Company might put up a smelter.
human
It's early for that, said Carnally with a grin.
gpt
They've got to raise milling ore and pack it down first. I suppose you've seen him; what's he like? I don't even know his name.
human
Big man, about your age. Kind of slow, thinks before he speaks, but for an English sucker he shows some sense. It's my notion he's a stayer.
gpt
Were they river-jacks he took along?
human
Struck me as more like railroad shovelers, though they could paddle in smooth water. As there's a nasty sea running in the open, you'd better look for him. If those fellows wreck his canoe and he has to spend the night on an island with nothing to eat while you sit in the hotel, it's steep chances he fires you.
gpt
I don't care two bits whether I get fired or no. The Rain Bluff Mining Company is the meanest business proposition I've ever run up against, except the Mappin Transport, which is worse. All the same, I guess I'll have to go. If you're going back to the hotel, you might tell the boys to bring my canoe and blankets.