In the meantime, he had much to do and drove his men hard, until a steam-whistle hooted and they threw down their tools.

His supper was ready when he reached the shack, but Charnock had not arrived, and although this was something of a relief, he felt annoyed.

He had told him to come when work stopped, but the fellow was never punctual.

An hour later Charnock walked in.
"I thought I'd better wait until after supper," he said.

"My coming now leaves you more at liberty to turn me out." "To begin with, I'd like to know why you came at all ?" "Sadie thought it was time I did something useful, and I agreed.