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 locating lines and monuments I can teach him his A B C’s.”

“That’s so,” whispered Bub. “If Abner can’t win out, no one can. When Hatton sent him up here he knew he was sending the best man in the state. But he can’t do the impossible.”

“Did Hatton mean what he said about discharging him if he failed?” murmured Stanley.

Bub grinned, “Guess he’d change his mind if he did,” he replied. “Anyway, Abner would be so touchy that he’d refuse to go back unless he succeeded. So far as a job is concerned there isn’t an operator in Maine, doing business on a big scale, but who would be glad to get Abner. He’s had lots of offers from all over.”

“Then he means what he says; that he gives up all hope and admits the fight is lost?” queried Stanley, his eyes flashing.

“That is exactly what he means, my son, and I’d lose lots of sleep over it, if that would help any,” returned Bub.

“I feel mad clear through. I’m going to walk it off. Give me the rifle,” gritted Stanley, rising.

“I wouldn’t take a gun, Stanley,” advised