Torn over-alls and old knee-boots lay amidst the axes and big saws in one corner, the dust was heavy everywhere, and rifles and salmon-spears hung upon the walls.

There was no sign of taste or comfort.

Everything suggested grim utility, and the house was very still.

The girl, who was tired, sat down with a little gesture of dismay.
"This is worse and worse," she said.
Deringham, who was fond of his daughter, laid a hand upon her shoulder reassuringly.

"You can go on to Vancouver when you wish," said he.
"Sit still and rest, while I see if there is anybody about." He strolled round the homestead, and noticed that log barns and stables were all well built, while presently he found a man plucking fowls in a galvanized shed.