His experience had taught him that if he wished to make his enterprise successful, he must keep it from the knowledge of his father and Dan.

If they found out that he expected to earn so much money, they would insist on a division of the spoils, and if their demand was not complied with, there would be trouble in the cabin.

He had no fear of his father now, but here was Dan, who was an unpleasant fellow to have about when he was crossed, and he seemed to know all about it.

There were troublous times ahead; David was sure of that.
"What does that feller up North want with so many quails, anyhow ?" asked Dan, as he placed one of the oak blocks upon its end and began splitting off a shingle with the frow.

"He can't eat 'em all by hisself." "No, he wants to turn them loose and let them run," replied David, with as much good nature as he could assume.