There's only one way of arguing with a panther, and that beast's a good deal less dangerous than Hallam is.

Now you'll ride in to the settlement to-morrow, and put up a notice at the store: 'The ranchers of the Somasco district are requested to attend a meeting at 6.30, Saturday.' At the bottom you'll put a big 'Important.' I've got to have a talk with you to-night." He made a hasty breakfast when they reached the ranch, and was busy at the sawmill, from which he did not return until supper, all day, so that it was not until that meal was finished and he was waiting for Seaforth that he had speech with Miss Deringham.

She sat by the stove apparently occupied with some delicate embroidery, but it was possible that her attention was not confined to the stitches.

Alton sat near her, looking straight before him, in a deerhide chair, and it was significant that neither of them found speech necessary.

The man's face was somewhat grim, and the girl wondered what he was thinking.
"You apparently did not find Vancouver enlivening," she said.
Alton laughed a little.