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 Great Northern would take a stand without being assured of success.

Realizing all this Hatton dreaded the coming interview with Thaxter. As yet he had not revealed the true state of affairs to the president. Now it must be done and he feared for his superior’s wrath. It was not a question of money and timber lands alone, but prestige was at stake.

No word had come from Abner since the Indian guide had returned to the Kennebago wangan and had sent word that all Frenchmen, who had ever worked for Nace, should be sent over to him for a trip in the woods. He did not even know for what purpose the men were wanted, but had hoped that the veteran had some shrewd scheme under way. He had talked with Carlton over the telephone and had learned of Abner’s departure for Flat-Top. The encounter with Big Nick had not impressed him as being of any moment, nor easily charged up against Nace. It was he, himself, who had first incurred the half-breed’s hatred.

He still was confident that Nace had swindled them. But this conviction would in no way mollify the president’s displeasure, unless sustained by proofs.