He was IT.
"That night everybody but the billiard-room gang sent in their resignation to that club.

We refused to be bossed by such people.

Gabe resigned, too.

He was disgusted with East Harniss and all hands in it.
He'd have took back the clubhouse, but he couldn't, as the deed of gift was free and clear.

But he swore he'd never give it another cent.
"Folks thought that would end the thing, because it wouldn't be self-supportin', but Jotham had different idees.