Page:Old ninety-nine's cave.djvu/20

 communication. Look at the iron mine, the blast-furnace and the rolling-mill. They cannot compete with like industries elsewhere and consequently fail."

"This town is bonded for the railroad and we are entitled to have it extended through to Kingston," his wife said.

"The business men of Elmdale do not want this extension, and I fear they have played a winning game."

A loud ring at the door announced the arrival of some one, and who should Reuben usher in but Mr. Mills himself.

"Good evening, Mr. Mills," said Mr. De Vere cordially. "Stormy night."

Divesting himself of overcoat and rubbers, Mr. Mills entered the library and shook hands graciously with both.

He was tall and spare, of about fifty-five, and his manner was that of a man of the world; but his unsteady glance never met one's frankly and his movements were restless.

Reuben brought in a tray on which were a plate of crullers and some cider and while