Burrell wasted no time.
"Are you going to locate here ?" he began.
"Yes." "I notice you go skeleton-rigged," the soldier continued, indicating the man's baggage.

"Pretty small outfit for a miner, isn't it ?" "It's plenty for me." "Have you enough money to buy your season's grub ?" "I guess that's my business." "Pardon me, it is my business also." "What is this--a hold-up ?" The man laughed harshly, at the same time swinging around till he faced his questioner.

Gale noted that his right hand now hung directly over the spot where his suspenders buttoned on the right side.

The trader moved aside and took up a position at some distance.
"My orders are to see that all new-comers either have an outfit or are able to buy one," said Burrell.

"Those that are not equipped properly are to be sent down-river to St.Michael's, where there is plenty of everything and where they will be taken care of by the government.