And on the moment there happened by two women whose remarks, as they entered the store, bore strong testimony to Dale's personality.
"If there ain't Milt Dale!" exclaimed the older of the two.

"How lucky! My cow's sick, an' the men are no good doctorin'.

I'll jest ask Milt over." "No one like Milt!" responded the other woman, heartily.
"Good day there--you Milt Dale!" called the first speaker.

"When you git away from these lazy men come over." Dale never refused a service, and that was why his infrequent visits to Pine were wont to be prolonged beyond his own pleasure.
Presently Beasley strode down the street, and when about to enter the store he espied Dale.
"Hullo there, Milt!" he called, cordially, as he came forward with extended hand.

His greeting was sincere, but the lightning glance he shot over Dale was not born of his pleasure.