THE PIT-PROP Driscoll was sorting pit-props, throwing them on to piles at the bottom of the shaft, when Thirlwell stopped to hook a small, flat lamp to his hat.

The man sometimes worked in the mine for a few weeks when the trapping season was over, and Scott was generally willing to engage him because he was skilful with the axe and labor was scarce.

He made no friends among the men, and gave Thirlwell a sour look without speaking when the latter picked up his lamp.
Thirlwell went on down the inclined gallery.

Water splashed upon his slickers and trickled about his feet; the tunnel was narrow and the air was foul.

Here and there a smoky light burned among the props lining the walls, and the dim illumination touched the beams that crossed the roof, but the gaps between the spots were dark.