Page:Hugh Pendexter--The young timber-cruisers.djvu/389

 “And give up the Flat-Top search?” sighed Stanley.

A suppressed chuckle behind him evidenced that Bub was keenly enjoying the approaching climax.

“I wouldn’t go back there ag’in fer all the spruce in New England,” Abner shot back over his bowed shoulder. “Besides,” and his tone was even more gloomy now, “I’m through with the Great Northern. I’ll git a new job soon’s I can hitch on to the warden’s telephone.”

“But I believe that we can prove the company’s line,” persisted Stanley.

“Reddy, say anything ye want to; ye’ve saved me twice. But if that there Bub makes a crack like that I’ll larrup him the minute I come to a good oak limb. He’s saved me only once. I’ll take it from ye, Reddy, but not from a distant relation. Now, let’s drop the subject.”

“But I enjoy talking about it,” remonstrated Stanley. “Think how proud we’d feel if we could go back successful.”

“Keep it up,” groaned Abner. “The wasps was pleasant little fellers alongside of such talk; but go ahead. Have yer say out.”

“Anyway, it’s worth something to say, ‘I’m