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Winch Riiildinti Vancoiivt-r, IVC". HR U Fa m m IB 1 ^a^^ * .< * ^1CtU0. ^ II t>^»«9^ ^ 7f. (TMlifty ^/n/ ^._:^ ,^^4^/ uAe^ /ot€^»ii€/u x^dor^^t ^o^^iA^ FABLES OF THE NECHACO A complete novel of one of the most remarkable and romantic districts on the American Continent. BY SLIVERS. L.L.D. Produced by the DOMINION STCCK AND BOND CORPORATION. LTD. WINCH BUILDING VANCOUVER. B. C. i^Mratintt To those who love the oi)en, who are ambitious to know the truth and aid and profit in the development of the last and best great west, this book ia dedicated. THE AUTHOR. /^ 3^ ^ / / (All rights to reprint reserved.; Once upon a time two broth- ers set out from London to make their fortune in British Colum- bia. They were nearly of the same age and physicjue and men- tal accomplishments. The older boy was of a venturesome and roaming nature and the younger boy was just the opposite. Be- ing of a different turn of mind, they soon parted after reaching British Columbia and were lost to each other. The older boy, being fond of adventure and travel, fre(iuented all the larger cities, working for good wages, enjoying himself immensely and soon gained the sobri(iuet of "Happy Jack." He made good money, but he spent it foolishly. To all entreaties of real estate men, who endeavored to get him to plant a few dollars of his earnings in some good farm or town lot, he turned a deaf ear and continued on revelling in the admiration of his companions who, from a purely selfish de- sire, lauded his actions and beamed on his liberality. Age crept on at a rapid pace and the once proud and admired "Happy Jack" found himself a premature old man, his money spent, his earning power gone and friends vanished. From one 8 position to another, of less im- portance, he changed, and soon found himself dissipated, broke, friendless and homeless. Too proud to go among his old friends or to ask for aid from those upon whom he had spent a life's earnings, he packed his blankets and "hit the trail" out into the rural districts where a great Railway Company were crying for laborers to complete their great system. Once out into the open country where every thing was free and happy, he had plenty of time for re- flection. The wild flowers gave off an aroma much more sweet and fragrant than the fumes of the artificial life he had led and intensified his heart-hunger and lonesomeness. On he trudg- ed along the grade, now and then stopping at the contractors' camps to inquire for work. Everywhere he was met with an offer of work, but it was not such work as he had been ac- customed to and he shrank from the offers. During the days as he travelled on, it seemed the grade would never end. On through the beautiful valleys along the Great Fraser River, for a distance the grade would take him, and again through farms and past cattle herds, everything seemed pleasing and inviting, but foreign to him. He was in another world. Here he found sincerity, truthfulness, a freedom of conscience and real happiness, nothing in keeping with his former life of extrava- gance and artifice. One night after a long, hard tramp, he him the hospitality of the camp. The foreman was a tall, large, well })roportioned man of middle age, keen eyed and forceful of manner, a man who was educat- ed and resourceful, who had made a success in life by span- ning many large streams for the Big Corporation in whose em- ploy he was. Something in the After a long, hard tramp, he reached the camp of a contractor. reached the camp of a contrac- tor and begged for food and shelter. He was utterly mis- erable and wretched. The fore- man of the bridge gang, for he had come upon one of the big camps building, one of the large bridges across the Lower Nech- aco River, met him with a good natured handshake and offered man seemed to attract "Happy Jack," for as such we have come to know him, although the name ill suited him at the pres- ent time. Here was a man who had done something. He had made the best of. his early train- ing and had frowned upon all temptations which had been life to the derelict. This bridge foreman was oiijoyiiifj^ tlu; fruits of liis labors. Now liis task was a comparatively easy one as ho was at the liead of his depart- ment with a large foree of both skilled and common laborers at his command, who regarded him as a superior being, antl who were, by his instructions and guidance, slowly but surely bringing to completion a great traffic way, across one of the dangerous passes of the Ijower Xechaco. This dav, after the evening meal, the men all lay about upon the moss covered bank of the great river near where the steam shovels of the graders had cut a great wound in the bank on both sides of the strearr at either end of. which t, 'eat st«el graders stretched their length toward the middle span. The Bridge Builder was exi)laining some of the more important work for the morrow, while those directly connected wdth this particular work were listening attentively, while others were enjoying their pipes and a (piiet rest after the day's toil. To ''Happy Jack" this picture was a revelation. For the greater part these men had never known the kindness of a good home, such as he had left many years ago, and still, uncouth as most of these com- mon laborers were, they were his masters in happiness and con- tentment, as well as in health and finance. Many of them had small farms along the line which was now building through this wonderful, fertile valley. Others had placed a part of their earnings in one or more city lots in the more important town- sites along the line and had found themselves richer by many 8 dollars over tlicir investment. All of this meant a certain a- mount of saei'ifice and thrift, something heretofore urdcnown to "Happy daek," and Ik; was becoming restless and weary. He was nothing to these people and they seemed to resent his visit, although the greater i)art were men of his own race and blood, he felt that he was not wanted among them. The awful lone- someness of his wasted life fell upon him and. for the momeiit, he was lost iji retros[)ection. He could hear the laughter of the city life, feel the slap upon the back, of an acfjuaintance whoso insincerity now chill(!d him. He could see the dollars upon dol- lars that he had made only to throw away upon those who now mocked him, and had turned a deaf ear to his wants before his taking leave of his former life. All the wretchedness of a mis- spent life now crept upon him and for, perhaps the first time iu his life, he gave a serious thought to his future Avelfare. For the first time in his life, he wished for a home, if only a snmll lot, garden tract or piece of land upon which he coidd stand and say to the world. "This is mine; upon this spot I am master of everything." The laborers had about all dis- appeared in their cabins, they were tired from their day's lab- or and the morning would come only too soon to start another dny's work upon the bridge. These men were accustomed to retire and rise with the sun. There were no night hawks among them, no wild carousals with bursting heads and bleary eyes the morning after. The more "Happy Jack" knew of llicsc men smd tln' freedom of llic nsral life to which they had Ix'cii {KHMistonicd. the more he i'elt tlie fjfreat sacrifice he had maih' 1o Jiiake himself a ti;ood J'eUow, for iiothitifif mon; ihan 1o earn a few smiles from insin- cerity. The hridjj;*' ])'.ii!(h'r >\ as the hist to rise from where he liad heen sitting', npon a hni?*? coil of steel cable and as lie ])assed ''IIaj)|)y Jack", he stop- ])ed. and eyeing "Happy" for a moment, said, "What's the mal- ter, old chap? Yon look sor: of worn ont. You won'd not do for a bridge gang, as the work is too heavy. lietter get to ])ed over there," pointing in the dir- ection of the bunk house, "you will find a comfortable cot for the night, and take my advice, old man, get all the sleep you can in the fore part of the night That "Daredevil," the owner of the best land from here and Fort Fraser along the right of way, will be in here tomorrow morning before daylight, and he'll wake us all up with that great team of his loaded with farm products for the gang. He has all my men scared out of their wits with his dare-devil driving and fast horses. Only the other day he wanted to lay a wager with the time-keeper that he could ride any one of his six horses over that girder, out to the first span, and I believe he could do it. He had a pretty hard time of it when he first located here, but he stuck to the plow, and now has one of the best and most productive farms in all the Nechaco Valley, and that is saying a whole lot, when this country is noted for its fine agricultural land. He just re- turned from the old country with his family, where they had gone for a trip and visit to his old home in Lancashire." At the name of his old home, "Happy" winced, and the bridge maker rattled on with his description of the farmer. "He don't need to work, but does it for the love of the out-of-door life, and his love of fine horses, which he always drives. He made a lot of money in Fort Fraser when that town was put on the market a few years back, and since that time he has taken an active interest in the politics and the general welfare and development of the district. Good night ' and when you hear a sound like a cyclone hit the camp, you will know what it is. It is onlv Will i^rown. ' ' The Bridge Builder passed on in to his tent without seeing the frightened look on "Happy's" face, nor was he aware of the emotions of this poor unfortunate at the sound of Will Brown's name. Little did the Bridge Builder dream that this man whom he admired for his character, wealth and daring was the brother of the unfortunate he had sheltered this night. ( <- 6 CHAPTER II. 'Happy" sat for a long time in the same position as the Bridge Builder left him, after the first shock, at the mention of his brother's name, looking out into the night with a blank stare. It had been several years since he and his brother had parted. There had been some misunder- standing at the parting owing to their entirely different tempera- ments, and Will had been almost forgotten by the older brother, which fact and the additional fact that his brother had pros- pered and was one of the richest men in the Nechaco Valley did not relieve "Happy's" present mental condition. He had plenty of natural ability and even more than his brother; he boasted of an excellent education which his younger brother did not possess, or at least did not have at the time of their separation. But as the eye could reach, t.ne of the characters peculiar to the western world, where big men are developed and big things ac- complished. "Happy" knew the history of many such men. He had lived the greater part of his life among such conditions and had known of scores of incidents whore a poor man had made him- self rich beyond description, Tlie Bridge Builder's Camp. (( Happy" felt now that his brother, owing to the Bridge Builder's description, whom he had come to look upon a : his workmen did, a superior being, must have developed into one of the big ranchers, with, land and stock and beautiful fields as far almost in a day, by having the forethought, judgment and cour- age to secure a land holding somewhere in one of the many small towns that had grown into Cides in the remarkable short time for which the West was noted. ** Happy" thought over the many advantages which had come to him. He lived over and over again the many opportunities which he had lost. The many lost opportunities now loomed up before ** Happy's" vision like a horrible nightmare, and the fol- lies of his life seemed to crowd themselves all at once upon him. Ijong after the midnight bell had struck *' Happy" sat motionless, his chin resting upon his chest and in a sort of semi-conscious condition his mind flew on over the events of his life, leading up to the present day. In his reverie, he had forgotten for the time that the nig' it air had chilled his body or that everything about was wet from the dew which in- variably falls in the Nechaco at that time of the year. "Happy" was alone, alone in a great new land where everything was life and hustle. It was a new world to "Happy" that had suddenly burst upon his vision. He felt, with keen regret, the humiliation his brother would of necessity feel at his present miserable con- dition. Would his brother re- cognize him? There was a pos- sibility that he would not, and in this thought "Happy" was both consoled and startled. One moment he felt as if he would leave before his identity became known and the next moment his longing to see and talk with his brother riveted him to the spot. What excuse could he give? What reparation could he make for his useless, selfish and un- important life? Arousing him- self from his present stupor, he got up and walked slowly into the tent where the camp mess cook had prepared for him a bed. Throwing himself upon the cot, his troubled mind and body were soon resting in sleep. 8 CHAPTER III. How long "Happy" slept he did not know. It was still dark when he suddenly sprang to his feet, aroused by a distant rumble that shook the ground upon which he stood in front of his tent. On the sound came, nearer and nearer. As he listened he thought he could distinguish the sound of horses' hoofs as they travelled at a wild gait upon the hardened surface of the Nechaco Road, a road upon which the Government had expended large sums of money, making it a renowned drive, 'way from Fort Fraser, out through rich fields of hay and grain, past beautiful lakes fringed about their moss-covered edges with wild roses and berry bushes, and backed in many spots by stately poplars that cast their shadows during the long summer days, into the clear sparkling waters of the Nechaco Valley lakes. From where "Happy" stood he had a clear vantage of the sur- rounding tents and cabins and saw lights appearing one after another in all directions. Morn- ing rays were just visible in the east, and "Happy" knew the camp was awake and soon the workmen would be preparing for another day's labor. On the sound of hoofs came, and now the rattle of wheels could be in- audibly heard. The next moment, befoic "Happy" could bring his mind to a solution of the uproar, he heard distinctly the sound of a man's voice ring out upon the morning air. That voice! "Happy" grasped a guy rope in one hand and clutched at his shirt over his heart with the other. He leaned forward, as if in mortal fear, heedless of the emotion the unusual occasion had aroused in the camp. Men came hurrying from their sleeping quarters, looking first in one di- rection and then another, seem- ingly conscious of some imminent danger. Light was just begin- ning to break through the early mist to the east. On the roar came like the sound of a cavalry charge, but the voice, that but a moment before had startled the camp with its deafening appeal of mingled command and fear was hushed. Another moment and six huge, black, excited and foaming ob- jects could be seen, running like mad, turning to the left of the camp and heading directly for the river. "Happy" was staring wildly at the unexpected and mad flight of the horses, when suddenly he saw th(^ form of a man being dragged by some in- visible means along the side of the frightened steeds. Like a flash the truth dawned on ''Happy." That voice was the voice of his brother, who had in some unaccountable manner lost control of his fiery team and was being dragged to sure and sudden death! The leader swerved to the right and the lead chain tripped one of the swing horses, which halted their progress. But only for a moment. The great horse was on his feet in an in- stant and on they flew with their human sacrifice. By mak- ing a few leaps "Happy" could head off the team. Unaccustomed as he WHS to handling horses, he would take the chance of saving the life of his brother. There was no doubt the helpless form rolling and bumping on the ground near the crazed beasts was that of Will I;5rown, the dare-devil driver. There was no time to lose, no time to weigh the chances of losing his life with that of saving his brother's. "Happy" was no coward at any time, and now all his energies were thrown into action, as he sprang forward towards the lead- ers with a prayer upon his lips. He closed his eyes, lunged for- ward and grasped the bridle of the leader. The horse reared in the air, carrying "Happy" off his feet. Hanging on to the head- gear with one liand, the other shot out and closed upon the nostrils of the maddened animal. "Happy" felt a terrific blow in his side and he was conscious of a heavy fall. For the instant he saw the big steed stumble, throw- ing himself into the soft dirt. He was on top of the animal and all the others came rolling over them. "Happy" tried to release himself, and then all was dark. Q CHAPTER IV. "Hold them all down until we can get tlie tramj) out without being kicked and trampled on." Happy heard this comment and the epithet ap[)lied to him stung all the more as he recognized the bridge builder's A-oice. "Tramp 1 may be, but I was the only man among you who had the courage to stop the mad flight of the horses." Happy thought to him- self. IIap|)y was just coming to his senses and knew that several men were holding the horses from lunging or jumping, in an effoi't to get to their feet. Happy was laying face down between two animals and another horse was laying crosswise above him. In this maimer Happy was pro- tected in the fall, otherwise he would have been crushed to death. Happy was now fully con- scious, and was suffering from a severe pain in his right side. Just then one of the horses gave a lunge, freeing itself from the men holding it, and gained his feet. The other two rolled about for a moment and also got to their feet, leaving Happy upon the ground partly mashed into the soft dirt where the team had piled up one on top of each other, as he had caught the leader. "Pick him up boys, and carry him into my tent. The Company surgeon has pronounced Brown out of danger with no bones broken, but this poor devil did not fare so well. He's a brave beggar at any rate. He put us all to shame in stopping these horses. But for his quick act Brown and the team would all be at the bottom of the Xechaco by this time." Happy heard all this from the Bridge Builder. Evidently they thought him done for, but aside from the numbness in his lower limbs and the awful pain in his side he was none the worse for his experience and now that he knew his brother was unharmed he took courage and opened his eyes as they gently rolled him over, face upward, preparatory to moving him to the Bridge Builder's tent. The Bridge Builder was standing over him, and on seeing signs of life he stooped quickly and laid his big rough hand on Happy's forehead, brushing the hair back from his face. "Hand me the water can <|uick and get the doctor. He's got enough life in him yet to fight for." Happy tried to 10 speak, but blood was coming from both nose and mouth and he spoke with difficulty. "Don't talk, old man, save your ener- gies, you will pull through all- right." Just then the surgeon came running up, threw a wet towel over his face and tore open his shirt to examine his heart. For a moment he listened to his breathing and heart action, while those about all held their breath for his answer. "He's alright, boys, and we can move him with- out danger. Bring out a light cot from my tent." As the surgeon said this he raised the towel and wiped Happy's face clean of dust and blood. Then Happy felt his shirt sleeve ripped open with some sharp instrument and a sharp pain like a pin prick on the inside of the arm just below the elbow, and in a moment the pain in his side was gone. He felt as if he was floating in air, his muscles relaxed, and he had a half conscious idea of being carried away as the powerful drug which the surgeon had in- jected be^an its quieting effect. The bridge builder and sur- geon, assisted by as many of the laborers as could conveniently help, raised Happy onto the cot and carried him into the tent where his brother lay on another cot, badly cut and bruised from being dragged several hundred yards by his frightened team. It was a strange coincident that the brothers should again be united in this manner after many years of separation. Will Brown was sleeping under a mild opiate the surgeon had administered before dressing the many small wounds he had received while being help- lessly tangled up in the harness and trappings of his famous team. In a short time he would be awake and able to be up, and in a few days he would be com- pletely over his mishap. It was now nearly noon and the two men lay quietly upon their cots. The two brothers were about the same size, both of medium sta- ture, rather stout and short. Their features were regular with blue eyes and dark hair. Happy's hair, however, was (juite gray, and while there was less than two years difference in their age, Happy looked from ten to fifteen years the older. Happy's wounds had been carefully examined and attended to by the surgeon, who had discovered that two ribs were broken and that at least one had been driven into his lungs in the fall. This left Happy in a bad condition. The wound in the lung had caused the blood to flow freely from his mouth when he had been moved. The doctor had left instructions to watch him closely and to pre- vent him from moving about on the cot, fearing a hemorrhage that might cost him his life. CHAPTER V. Evening came on, but it brought no change of import- ance to the injured men. The bridge builder had taken care of the big team, and had succeeded in picking up the load of vege- tables and supplies which had been turned over in the runaway. The exact cause of the accident could not be ascertained, but it was presumed that the driver was riding on the boxes piled high upon the wagon, when the team, for some reason, became unmanageable and ran off the hard road, causing the two front wheels to sink into the soft, rich 11 valley soil, throwing the load, together with the driver, forward upon the horses, thus increasing their fright. AVith one bound the horses had torn themselves loose from the wagon, which was cramped and fast in the loose dirt, and carried the driver, who was tangled in the trappings with them. This was the only so- lution of the accident, and per- haps could not be better ex- plained by the information of the owner himself. The men were all laying about on the green grass near the cook tent after the evening meal, while many of the workmen were (juietly enjoying the inevitable pipe ; others were earnestly dis- cussing the events of the day and the extraordinary exhibition of bravery of the tramp. Nearly all the men who ventured an ex- planation of the circumstances held a different view. All of a sudden there was a lull in the conversation and a horse could be distinctly heard coming at full gallop up the road from the di- rection of Fort Fraser. The rider was now in view, and a moment later the rider, a lady, dismounted at the surgeon's tent. The horse was out of breath, and it was evident it had been sent over the miles between town and the camp at full speed. A number of the workmen ex- changed knowing glances as they recognized the rider. Sho was a new comer in town, and had been often seen recently in com- pany with the bridge builder. Inside the tent the bridge build- er and the surgeon were discuss- ing the events of the day, to- gether with another incident in which the railroad company would be involved in a damage suit for an injury occurring to one of its employees. They had been so engrossed in their talk that they had paid no attention to the commotion outside caused by the unexpected visitor. The first intimation either had of the new arrival was, when the screen door of the large hospital tent was thrown open and Gene Rey- nolds stood before them. Both men rose to their feet instantly. It was apparent that the visitor was excited and bewildered. Looking first at one and then the other, she held out her hand to the bridge builder and ex- citedly exclaimed. "Mr. Carver." Then, hesitatingly, she continued, "I thought you were dangerously hurt. I heard in the store that you were nearly killed in a run- away. My horse was saddled and in front of the store preparatory to my usual evening canter and I came at once, thinking I could be of some service." All this was said so ([uickly by the excited girl, that she scarcely realized what she had said or its import- ance to the man she addressed, who was deeply in love with her, but who, up to this time never dreamed that his love was re- turned. The girl, flushed from her ride and the anxiety for the man she dearly loved, stood before him, a perfect picture for an artist, l^nderneath a large folt riding liat masses of blond hair were hanging about her face and shoulders and her large blue eyes were staring wide open, as il" disbelieving what they told her, that he was unharmed. The l)ridge builder was surveying her beautiful figure and poise and thought to himself what a fool he had been never to have realized what a really beautiful woman she was. Unaccustomed as he was to the society of women, he was a poor judge of feminine qualities Avhich most men rave over. lie knew that Gene Rey- nolds was fascinating — that dur- ing the hours spent in her cora- l)any she absorbed all of his at- tention, so much that he seemed to forget his work, his surround- ings and everything except her wit and laughter. Only occa- sionally was she ever quiet. At such times, even in the midst of an animated conversation she would loose control of herself comi)letely as if suffering from some hidden pain. Her arms would drop listlessly to her side and as she would turn from him he could easily discern that she was suffering from great emotion which she was striving to over- come. Her gaze returned to him ; gave him the impression of a frightened deer brought to bay by the crack of a rifle and the sting of the huntsman's knife. These moods, as the bridge build- er termed them, had occurred more fre(iuently of late, but he scoffed at the idea that any- thing in her past lif« was the cause. Gene was nearing thirty, but her education, refinement and excellent manners precluded such a thought. The surgeon was the first to break the awkward si- lence by excusing himself and left the tent. Alone for a mo- ment, the bridge builder deter- mined to use the unexpected op- portunity to press his suit for her hand. "I am so glad you are not hurt, you have always been so kind. My life here among the country folk is a lonely one. My ideas and experi- ences have been so entirely dif- n ferent, and I half suspect at times they resent my coming among them." "And 1 am sorry I am not hurt," the bridge build- er stepped near to her as he said this, continuing, "It would be worth while getting hurt to have such a charming nurse." Stamp- ing her foot on the floor like a spoiled child Gene said, "Don't make fun of me." She stepped back and he caught her riding whip, which was fastened to her waist, and drew her towards him, and before she realized his in- tent he had caught her in his arm and was looking straight in- to her eyes. For v. moment they stood thus, each lost in their own emotions. "I know you love me, won't you admit it?" "No! I hate you. ' ' in the back so you will take care of me." Gene knew she loved this man more than all the world. She was accustomed to flattery and had made many men wretched for being so foolish as to fall in with her, but none of them ever touched Gene's heart, she could truthfully say "Then I'll go out yard and get hurt love had and that she His for Carver was the first man had ever even cared for. last remark seemed so silly him, as he was always so grave and serious. She could not help but smil?, relieving her em- barrasment to some extent. Slowly releasing her arms from iiis embrace she threw them about his neck, and drawing his face down to hers kissed him pas- sionately. Of a sudden the lovers were startled by someone calling for Mr. Carver, and another mo- ment the young man who had been assigned the care of the runaway victims put his head in through the door of the hospital tent, saying, "Pardon me, sir, but it's Mr. Brown who wishes to see you, sir." As Gene and the bridge builder followed the boy he was telling her of the morn- ing's adventure of Will Brown. Gene was visibly affected, as she had come to look upon Mr. Brown as one of her best friends. It was his company who had brought her to Fort Fraser and given her her present position, and Mr. Brown, above all others connected with the corporation, had put himself out to make her life in the new country pleasant by entertaining her on more than one occasion in his elegant new home near town. In fact, both Gene and the bridge builder owed their present happiness to Will Brown, as it was through him and in his house they had first met. Will Brown had suf- ficiently recovered from his mis- fortune to be able to sit up ; in fact, walk about some, and had made preparations for his return home early the next morning. "Good evening. Miss Reynolds," said Brown as they entered his tent. "What brings you out here?" and without knowing the truth, continued, "Did you think it was Carver that wae hurt? Lucky dog. Carver, to have won such a girl." "Oh! please stop, Mr. Brown." "I've known your secret for a long time," Brown continued, and the bridge builder beat a hasty retreat, much to the amusement of Brown and the boy, leaving Gene to face the ordeal alone. "Can I be of ser- vice to you? Are you badly hurt?" Gene inquired, hoping to change the subject. "No, I am not hurt much. At present I am a bit sore from the knocking about I got before the team was 13 stopped. Tell Mr. Carver to come back, boy. I wish to thank him for his kindness." The boy left the tent in search of the bridge builder. "I wish to leave some instructions for the care of the man whom they say stopped the team at the risk of his life and is suffering from a hole in his lungs punched in by two broken ribs. He's a brave devil of a tramp, but he got a nasty fall in stopping the team and I intend to see that everything is done for him that can be done to save his life. That's him there," pointing to the other cot. "He's sleeping under the influence of a drug." Happy was laying on his back, with his face partly concealed and turned to the wall. Gene walked over to the cot and carefully raised the blanket from his face. ' ' Happv Jack ! " * ' Good God!" I— I thought!" Gene raised her hands to her face and reeled backwards. Brown jumped to his feet and helped her to a seat. '*Do you know him?" queried Brown. "No — yes; I don't know what to say." Re- gaining her composure remark- ably quick, Brown thought, she begged him not to mention the circumstance for the present to Mr. Carver. CHAPTER VI. Late that evening, after dining with the Bridge Builder, Mr. Brown and the Doctor, Gene ordered her horse and started for town. All the men, espec- ially the Bridge Builder, were nonplused at her absolute refusal to allow anyone to accompany her home. True, it was a beauti- ful, warm night, with a June moon shining o'er head, making the night almost as light as day in the clear, dry atmosphere of the Nechaco and there was really no danger, but there was one who craved the opportunity of accompanying her. After Gene's departure, the Bridge Builder, fearing f-or her safety, followed at a short distance, on the Surg- eon's horse. He intended only to go out on the road a short way, or until Gene had passed through a heavy clump of trees on the road into Fort Fraser, which was not far from their camp. A number of new settlers had re- cently come into the district and been camped along the road, or had taken up land and were liv- ing in temporary shacks. The most of these people were strang- ers and the Bridge Builder felt it best to see Gene beyond this point. Contrary to the Bridge Builder's expectations. Gene rode very slowly, apparently lost in meditation, but he, being ac- customed to her moods, thought little or nothing of her queer decision to ride home alone. Once through the trees, and out into the open, she stopped, and stand- ing up in her stirrups, she raised herself up as high as possible and looked across the country, evidently trying to locate some object. For a moment she stood thus and then, quick as a flash, she settled back on her saddle and sent her horse flying off the road, out into the tall meadow grass and straight across coun- try, almost at right angles to the road. The Bridge Builder was astonished at this unexpected turn, and sat motionless for a moment, completely bewildered by her movements. He was some distance behind her and just in tue edge of the trees, completely hidden from view. From the 14 direction in which she went, if. It was none of his business where she held the same course, sho she was going, — perhaps to the would pass by the south end of home of some settler who was the timber, a point which the sick that she knew of, or per- Bridge Builder could reach un- haps to stay all night at the t'V ■• \ ■--' : ■ -i'^ ." ■■'■'''^ ■'■■^t-.-' ■ ■:■': ■'■■ <■«< - ■':*^^-'' .■!'» <^¥qSc A V4*j • • .'.•■.■<•.■■'.••. vi'.-".'^ '-^ :.•.'■■••>'.• ■ She stopped, and standing up in her stirrups, she raised herself up as high as possible and looked across the country. observed and ahead of her. Here home of some family she knew, the Bridge Builder hesitated. He rather than take the long ride fully realized now that he was back to town. This might be spying upon the girl he loved, the reason of her decision to re- For the first time, he felt queerly. turn alone. All these ideas came 15 I I I < ! i I I [ £1 and went as he rode carefully through the timber. Finally he halted his horse as he heard Gene coming at a gallop through the grass, almost directly before him. Just beyond where he was con- cealed, there was one cabin oc- cupied by a man who had aroused considerable curiosity by his pe- culiar habits and the fact that he never mingled with any of the other settlers, which was some- thing unusual in a new country like this. Everyone here was friendly and sociable and always willing and ready to help one another. Contrary to the cus- toms of. the settlers, he had no associates, which made him an object of comment, and for some reason the men at the camp had taken a dislike to him. This feeling was shared by the Bridge Builder himself, although he scarcely knew why. The man was not a farmer, although he had secured one of the best farms in the neighborhood and adjoin- ing the Railroad. By this time, Gene was approaching and within easy speaking distance. As she passed, the Bridge Builder's horse stepped on a dry twig which snapped and Gene stopped, looking directly in the direction of the Bridge Builder. He was suffocated with excitement, fear- ing he would be discovered, but before he could regain his nor- mal composure. Gene passed on and had stopped within a short distance of the cabin, looking around to make sure no one was about, gave a sharp M-histle. In a moment the window of the cabin opened and a similar whistle was heard from within. Immediately the door opened and the owner could be seen, stand- ing in front of the cabin with a rifle in his hand. Gene dis- mounted and, throwing her bridle reins to the man, passed on into the cabin. Not a word was spoken by either. The man took the horse around to the back and returned to the front door. For a moment he stood outside the door, the outline of his figure could be faintly seen against the cabin. Shortly the door opened and he passed in. The Bridge Builder could see Gene open the door and hold it open to allow this man to enter. There seemed to be a complete understanding between the two, although not a word up to this time had pass- ed between them. By this time the Bridge Builder was furious with jealousy. Who was this What possible he have with she knew him was something nature between apparent, not be so connection the girl ? and that of an un- them Avas otherwise she indiscreet as to 16 man '/ could That there usual most would visit him at this hour of the night, alone. The Bridge Builder got off his horse, made him fast to a tree and started towards the house. As he neared the cabin, he heard the two inside talking excitedly, and before he reached the cabin the door open- ed and Gene came out, followed closely by the man, who was shaking his hand at her in a threatening manner, as he said, ''You make Carver come to my tfc.MuS or suffer the consequences," The Bridge Builder by this time had got so close to the cabin that he had hard work in concealing himself, but the two people were so engrossed in their conversation that they paid no attention to who might be near. '*I tell you Bob, I love this man with all my heart, and I in- tend to many him against you and the whole world. He is reasonable and will believe me, — of this I am sure." The Bridge liuilder knew they were talking of him. Her declar- ation of love for him took him completely by surj)rise, which changed his feelings immediately, but the next moment he was doomed to still further anxiety and bewilderment. * * Get my horse — I am going ! ' ' said the girl. **You are not going until we come to a You have no he is not of would never These people full understanding, love for this man, — your kind and you be happy with him. are not of your kind. What do they know of the life you know? What is pleasure and enjoyment to them would be purgatory to you." "Don't argue with me any longer. I have told you that I no longer fear you, and I have proved it by coming here tonight at this hour, alone." *'0h! You have never had any reason to fear any bodily harm from me You entered into this scheme with me to make money out of these rich country folks and by G — ! you will play the game to the end." "Bob, you are a coward — you always were one and today I dis- covered something that will make a good dog of you in a short time. I came here tonight to try and break with you and let you go your way and live as you like, do as you like, as long as you keep your hands off the man I love." *'Love, that's a thing for babies to play with. Why you don't know the first rudiments of what that word means. You don't love this man, neith'^r did you ever love any other man that you have known. You were al- ways ready to nuike money bo- fore. What's come over you? Since you came here you have become a different i)erson. Why, one would think you had always lived the simple life. Has the atmosphere, the big farms and the (luiet happiness of the coun- try peo])le turned your head? What is this mysterious informa- tion you got today that makes you so brave?" "Get my horse and I will give you something to think over." Bob, as she called him, turned the corner of the cabin and re- turned with her horse. As he came up to Gene, she said some- thing which the Bridge Builder could not hear and which made the man drop the reins of the horse. Leaning forward, he i)ut his hand up to the side of the cabin to support himself, and as he did this. Gene sprang into the saddle. Looking back over her shoulder as she started away, she said, "Yes, you can take my word. The tramp is Happy Jack." Chapter 7. The Bridge Builder watched Gene ride slowly across the up- lands towards Fort Fraser, un- til she was lost in the night. The unexpected had happened — his ideals of the girl he loved had been smashed. Like a lightning bolt from a troubled sky, when it reaches down and strikes the topmost branches of the tallest pine and rips it to the very roots, leaving it split, charred and with- ered, but still standing and de- fiant. Just so had Gene's meet- 17 iiig tliis iiij^lit with this iiiHii, llic one n)aii in the eiilii-c Xceliaeo Avith whom lie had iitn'cr hchl anytliiny in eoiiinion, licr refer- ence to liei" old life and associ- ates, lier (!oiii|)aet with this wan- (lei'lin«j of the unch-rworhl. for the l)i'idfi:e Uuilder was now con- vinced of his trne cliarac^tei', had changed her from the beantiful. innocent girl 1h» had loved to a charred and blackened hag. who had one object left in the world, to fight for the man she loved — but did she r-. ally love or was it J) u rely a selfish desire to marry a man who would or could give her a home and position and compel respect for her. The Bridge l^uilder returned to his horse, without even a glance in the direction Gene had taken. IMounting his horse, he returned slowly to his camp, determined to dismiss her from him forever, such Avere his thoughts and he really believed he wovdd do this very thing, but men of his cali- bre, men who brook no opposi- tion from man or elements, men who can and do overcome all obstacles ai'e the very weakest where women are concerned. Especially is this true, when the object of his affections is the target of a selfish, miserable cur who seeks to wrong her and that was what was being planned in- side the cabin he had just left. Rob Morris was a small, mean, insignificant creature, who had preyed upon unfortunate women, taking advantage of their con- fidence and position in nearly all the large coast cities. Not alone had he prospered in the nefar- ious life, but he had almost com- mitted murder for the purpose of robbery and had been smart enough to protect himself, by 18 accnsing and convicting another of his crime. When he had run the limit of his misdeeds, he had made his way out into the rapid- ly settling district of the Xe('ha- co, where he hope(l to cai'ry on his dishonest dealings with the innocent count I'y peo|)le, who were massing gi-eat fortunes in the rapid I'ise of both Fort Fra- ser city property and farm land near by. ]\y a strange coinci- dent, however, just at the time when lie felt himself most se- cure in his present undertak- ings, a man should appear on the scene whom he most feared of all the people, both men and wo- men, whom he had abused. Happy Jack was the one per- son in all the world whom he feared aiid IIai)i)y Jack had stuml)led right into the middle of his contemplated operations, and had by saving the lif« of the richest man in Fort Fraser, made himself a hero ii] the eyes of all the community. Ilap- l)y Jack must be gotten rid of but how. Bob Morris was pac- ing to and fro in his cabin, in deep study, his hands clenched behind his back and stooped, his hat pulled down over his cold gray eyes, that snapped under long black lashes, the muscles of his face drawn to such an extent as to depict the keen and hardened criminal that he was. The door and windows carefully locked and bolted, with his gun conveniently placed, but for the occasional start from some sound outside, he was ob- livious to his surroundings. Sud- denly he stopped short and gazed at a thing on the floor near the door — something he had not not- iced before. As if fixed to the spot he stood, his eyes riveted on the object, the muscles of his face worked in nervous twitelies. his haiiils loosened from their elinelu'd {)Osition behind his ])ack and n'ached for the ob- ject. In this short si)ace of time, his alert criminal brain had planned to do away with the man he feared, who was laying helpless in a nearby tent and to fix the crime on another through the evidence of Gene's whip, which he now held before him. Coward that he was, he would stab Happy to deatli in his pres- ent helpless condition and leave Gene's whip as tell-tale evidence. The Bridge Builder reached camp about the same time Gene Reynolds reached the home of Will Brown, where she intended to stay until morning. Enter- ing the large gates to the drive ■way that led up to the house from the east, she was soon in- side the beautiful grounds for which this country home was known throughout the entire Ne- chaeo Valley. Her horse was tired and she allowed him the freedom of his head, which he held nearly to the ground as he moved slowly np the drive-way, lined with magnificent shrubbery which had been imported from England together -with the keep- er and his family who lived in the keeper's lodge, just inside the gates. As Gene neared the house, a farm hand hailed her to make sure who it was at this time of the night. The great farm house was lighted up from top to bottom and the family were all up, ex- pecting more news from the fath- er and husband. Mrs. Brown greeted Gene as she dismounted from her horse and made anxious inquiries as to the welfare of her husband. She had, however, been kept fully advised and knew he would be home early next morning. "What makes you so late, Miss Reynolds? One of the boys who left eami) after you did has been in some time." Gene gave a start and looked first at Mrs. Brown and then at her horse as he was being le'■ — ''■^''■*S alized now. that nothing short of a suporhnman lovo on his part, would cvor forgive her for her connection witli J^ob Morris and other things wliich she fully intended to make a full confes- sion of. at the first opportunity. ''Don't pay any attention to me, please. I am in trouble Mrs. Brown, but please don't (jues- tion me tonight, and when you know all, if you can forgive — " As Gene spoke she drew away from Mrs. Thrown. P^or some reason she felt her position keen- ly. She knew, good and mother- ly as this woman was, did she know the truth of her past life, she would not be permitted to enter the home she was now en- joying. ]\[rs. Brown was as all women of her class are, who have always been shielded from che world, narrow, especially Avhen it came to judging her own sex. The two ladies stood facing each other, the one terrified at what the morrow would bring, and the other wondering with her limited experience. She could not reconcile the girl's peculiar mood this evening. Mrs. Brown was her senior bv manv rears, but in experience and knowledge of the world, she was a mere child in comparison to the youn- ger woman. Still- thinkin'^ it was nothing but a lovers' (]uar- rel. she placed her arm about Gene in a most affectionate man- ner, and led her up the wide stairway, leading from the big living-room to her accustomed apartments on the next floor. • ■ Chapter 8. The following morning found the camp in its usual busy con- dition. The Bridge Builder was out early directing in person the placing of a large steel gir- der, over the main span of the bridge, considerable care had to be exercised, owing to the frail superstructure, and the swift current in the river at this point. Will Brown had made all arrangements to care for the "Tramp," as Happy had come to be known, and was leaving the tent where he had been con- fined since the accident, when Happy rolled over on his cot, and. in doing so, started a small hemorrhage and began coughing severely. Will Brown turned and watched Happy for a long time. This was the first time that he had really had a look at the man who saved his life, and something about Happy struck him as being familiar, but in his present condition, and having gone several weeks without shaving, disguised him completely, except to those who had seen him recently. Happy finally sat up on the edge of his cot. He was sore and stiff from the experience and ban- dages, but his brain w^as clear ?.nd he knew that he was out of danger and the thought that he had saved his brother's life made him forget his own con- dition for the moment. "We got a bad fall the other morning. I am glad you are able to be up," said Happy. "Yes, we did get several bumps and had it not been for your quick wit and courage, an- other bump and I and the team would have bumped into eter- nitv. Evervone has told me, that team would kill me, and I am about ready to believe it is true and I am going to return evil for good and give you those horses. I raised them mvself %^iJi el gir- of the had to e frail swift ; this made for the L come leaving 311 con- when lis cot, ted a began Brown ipy for le first had a ved his Happy amiliar, iidition, w^eeks ed him >se who Happy ^dge of ad stiff id ban- Ls clear } out of that he •'s life vn con- le other roil are ippy. several )een for age, an- he team to eter- 3ld me, ), and I ive it is ) return ou those myself and they are the pride of all Nechaco. " Will Brown had advanced towards Happy as he said this, and, laying his hand on Happy's shoulder, continued, "and with the team goes oije of my best farms. I want you for a neigh- bor — its time you quit tramping about and settled down. Any one who is brave enough to save a stranger's life, is made of the right stuff and all they need is a start in the right direction and I am going to give you the right start. Goodbye ! I must be re- turning home. I have left in- structions to have you brought to my home as soon as you are able to be up and away from the doctor's care." And before Happy could real- ize what this offer meant to him. Will Brown had left the tent and was off f^r his beautiful home. About noon, the Bridge Buil- der came into Happy's tent to find him enjoying a big bowl of bread and milk and the inside of the tent was literally banked with flowers of all kinds. The Fort Fraser district was noted above all other things for its magnificent flowers, the climate and soil being conducive to the development of both large and beautiful colored roses and other flowers, and Brown's home was a perfect rose garden at this time of the year. Mrs. Brown had sent out two large baskets, one f'lled with all the delicacies she could think of and which could not be had in tion camp, and the loaded with flowers, not go herself to administer to the wants of the man who had saved her husband's life, but she had done the next best thing a construe- other was She could sent one of her servants with all the comforts she could think of and Happy was enjoying them to the fullest extent when the Bridge Builder came in, "Hello! I see the Browns have rewarded you for your part in the mix-up the other day. Judg- ing from the orders around here, one ^\'ould think Brown owned the railroad — he does own near- ly everything else." The Bridge Builder was in an ugly mood. He had spent a rest- less night and everything seemed to irritate him and the attempt to make Happy more comfortable in his unfortunate condition only added to his ill feelings. "I am sorry if I have incon- venienced you, Mr. ." Happy hesitated, "1 haven't the pleas- ure of your name." "Carver," blurted the Bridge Builder, "and my name is — is," Happy was thinking hard. Should he give him his name or the cognomen he had long been known by, finally he said, "Happy Jack." The Bridge Builder dropped the rose he had been examining and turned (|uickly around. He remembered the name from last night. Gene '..as right — she must have recognized him, but why did she not tell him? "He was the one to whom she should have confided in," thought the Bridge Builder, in his usual dominating spirit. Happy noticed the movement, but could find no excuse for it. ( i ' 23 'Happy Jack" is an odd name," said the Bridge Builder, "where have you spent most of your life?" "I have spent most of my life nowhere and everywhere, just roaming about — here today and gone tomorrow. My experiences have been so many and so varied that I take life as it comes — nothing worries me." "I wish nothing worried me," said the Bridge Builder, "yes- terday I was the happiest man on earth and today perhaps the most miserable." "Ho! Ho! A woman in the ease! The same old story." said Happy, and Carver shot a look at Happy that told him he had hit the bnllseyo. "What do you know of it?" "I beg pardon, Mr. Carver," said Happy, bowing towards the Bridge Builder. "Nothing but a woman can clip a man's wings flying in the seventh heaven and drop liim b?,ck to old mother earth and the realities of life in one short day." The Bridge Builder was amused at Happy's deductions and for the time forgot his keen disappointment in Gene and laughed heartily. "You're a (jueer fellow, but when you know all you wont blame me." "Well, maybe I wont and may- be I will. I have a habit of al- ways siding with the woman, but at any rate, I could have no possible interest in your love affairs. ' ' "You may have a lot to do with them." was the answer, and as the Bridge Builder said this he passed out of the tent and left Happy completely puzzled at his last remark. "He's a queer sort," thought Happy, "I dont like his manner, but he'll get over his love affair and soon another will take her place." Happy settled back on his couch. He was improving very rapidly and the kindness of his brother and family to a stranger, as they supposed, was adding its beneficial effects on Happy's mind. His talk with the Bridge Jkiilder had brought back un- pleasant memories. He could pic- ture in his mind the image of the girl he loved. He lived over again, as he had often done, their quarrel, he could see this selfsame girl in the witness box, swearing his freedom away and to a pure falsehood. Happy was tired from his morning's exertion. He had never erred on virtue's side and ghosts of memories, reeling, drunk with wine and excesses, carried him off into the land of Nod. Happy's troubled sleep lasted for perhaps an hour, when he awoke to find standing be- fore him, the girl whom he had L .-ed and who had sold his love and his freedom for gold. Gene Reynolds was a few years older than when he last saw her, but her beauty had increased with the time. 24 Chapter 9. Happy sat up and rubbed his eyes, putting his hand out to- wards Gene, who, thinking he intended to offer her his hand as a token of friendship, caught it in both hers, but he drew it back quickly as if stung by a viper, Happy was beginning to doubt his mental physical sens- es. He fully recognized Gene, but why she should be there or why she had come to him was far beyond his ability to compre- hend. Several minutes elapsed and Happy was still staring at her when she, becoming impat- ient, stamped her foot on the floor and said: "Why don't you I I I I f I I say something — don't stare at me in that manner." ''Have a seat," said Happy, still wondering if he really were awake. "Don't look at me that way, I tell you," said Gene, "you are driving me mad. Say something — swfar at me — curse me, tell me that T have lied about you, tell me that I won your love and then swore you into jail, tell me anything — that I have ruined your life — anything," By this time Gene's voice had raised to a high pitch and she fairly screamed the last word. The last remark amused Happy, who could not help but smile. It is a strange condition of the liuman mind that compels us at times even in most serious mo- ments of our lives to laugh when we feel the deepest sorrow. Happy was never more serious in his life, nor more perplexed, but lie could not help but smile at Gene's rantings. Finally, he said: "And if I choose not to charge you of any of the things which you stand self accused of, what then?" This last remark took all the fight out of Gene. She had come into Happy's presence fearing for her life, and had she known that Happy was practically over Ms accident, perhaps she would not have had the courage to meet him, as well as she knew Happy's temper and that he had just cause to kill her. His un- usual behavior she could not un- derstand, and, as usual when the unexpected happens, she was thrown completely off her guard. Happy had successfully dis- armed her by his actions. "I know what you must think of me," she said. "I think you do not know my feelings, otherwise you, of all per- sons, would never come near me. I ft j1 sure it is for some special rea- son, not that you want to make amends fov what you have done in the past, but for some purely selfish reason. I know these things for a certainty, and, hav- ing the nerve of a stone image, you risk your life in coming to me." "I know I you," said Gene "Don't speak You know and I have wronged of that now. know what has passed, but for the present there is little use to break open old wounds. Out with it — what do vou want ? ' ' "Will you help me, Happy?" "I will reserve my answer until you have stated your case or trouble." "Don't be too hard on me. Happy. I have wronged you but I hope to be in a position soon to aid you and to repay you for all the misery I have ever caused you. I know it is a weak excuse to rely upon — the fact that I am a woman, but had I been a man I would have done differently. You know how hard it was mother lived. I money for her." "You did not need to steal nor swear your best friend's life away." said Happy. "But I was desperate. Mother M-as dying, the doctor had taken everything I had and then told nir^ ns they usually do, under such circumstances, that a change of climate was the only relief, for her. Bob IMorris of- fered me the money to swear against you." At the mention of Bob Mor- for me while had to gel 25 ris' name, Happy sprang to his feet, and advancing towards Gene, he said, "If I ever lay my hands on that miserable cur, he v.'ill die a dog's death." Gene stepped back. She had never seen Happy or any other man look so earnest or make such a threat. She had intended to tell Happy of Bob's where- abouts, but his present attitude precluded such a risk. "T fully realize what your feelings were at one time for me, but I did not love you, nor did I ever tell vou that I did, but I am in love i.ow and the strange thing of it all is that I am coming to you as the only one in the world that holds my future happiness in your hands. You know positively as many others do, who are not brave enough to admit it, that I never was immoral. I have been a thief — I have perjured myself for money, and I have always associated with both men and women who were bad, but I have never emulated their habits and you must prove this. I have come to you direct, as soon as I knew you were here. I am guilty of everything you may choose to charge me with. Wont you be merciful, Happy?" "Why should I show you any consideration after my incar- ceration in that miserable hole, a perfect Hell on earth. You might at least have sent me some w^ord of encouragement, but no, 3^ou left me there, there in that condition to rot for all you thought or cared for," Happy had crossed the tent and was looking at a beautiful specimen of a rose — his back half turned from Gene, who was almost dumb with fear at the 26 thought that she could not win Happy 's forgiveness. "These are beautiful flowers. Our paths have not been strewn with many such," said Happy, seemingly oblivious that Gene Reynolds was desperately in ear- nest about her future. "Why don't you go back to vour old friend, the one you fav- ored as against me? He would surely help you — he is such a brave and sympathetic individual especially where a woman's hon- or is at stake." "For God's sake, Happy, please don't mention his name. You are a man — he is a beast. He would sell me outright for a glass of whiskey if he could." Gene was becoming furious at Happy's indifference. Somehow she felt he was playing with her, like the cat plays with a mouse,^ but after all his heart would not allow him to injure her. Happy was becoming tired from being- on his feet, the first time since the accident, and he crossed the tent and almost fell on the cot. Gene caught him in her arm» and straightened him. As she did this, she slipped down on her knees before Happy, catching his hands in hers, while great tears rolled down her cheeks, as she kept on pleading for his forgiveness. They were both ab- sorbed in their own thoughts. Gene was begging hard now and she was not the kind to ask for any quarter, she was the type of woman who fights to the last, but here she was in the wrong and she knew it. She cared enough for Happy to deeply re- gret all the unhappiness she had caused him. The touch of Gene's arms as she helped him back on the cot, the sight of her big. to tav- m\d a iial blue eyes streaming with tears and her apparently utter help- less position, brought back all the old love for her and he could have taken her back and forgot- ten all, when they were startled by someone stepping into the tent. Happy looked up to see the Bridge Builder standing before them. Gene rose to her feet slow- ly and looked first at Happy and then at Carver, fearing for the outcome of this meeting. Gene Reynolds had nothing to fear from the man she loved, as a con- sequence of her acquaintance with Happy, but she was placed in a most embarrassing position to say the least. No one spoke. Happy was just beginning to un- derstand the true situation and remained silent with the idea of determining for a certainty just how matters stood between Gene and the Bridge Builder. He now recalled the remark made by the Bridge Builder on leaving the tent early in the day, and won- dered hoAv much Gene had told Mr. Carver of her past or his former association with her. An- other thing Happy had not learn- ed from Gene as yet, was just how she first learned of his pres- ent whereabouts, or who had told her that he was in the Xechaco Valley. It was hardly possible that she should know these facts by mere accident. The Bridge Builder broke the silence by ad- dressing Gene in rather a cold, though courteous manner. "Are you old friends?" he said. "Yes," replied Gene. "I have known Happy f/)r a long time and I am more than sorry to learn of his mis.^ortune. " The Bridge Builder was an- noyed at finding the two together, as he could plainly see that Gene was excited and had been crying. What this tramp or Bob Morris held in the life of this girl, he determined to find out, if not from her, then by some means from one or both of these men. The situation was very trying for all three. Happy was the least affected, although he was anxious to know just what part he was expected to play in the drama, which was slowly unfolding before him. "Happy and I have lived in the same cities and at one time we were the best of friends," broke in Gene. ''And now," suggested Carver, "you are enemies." Gene shot a look at Happy, ex- pecting him to reply, but Happy's f.ace was a blank. "No, not exactly that- -only today our meeting brought back unpleasant memories and I feel very, very sorry." "For Happy's injuries?" broke in Carver, "well you need not worry. He will be amply repaid by Blown." Happy did not like Carver's attitude, neither did he like the manner in which he was treating Gene, but not knowing just how far matters had progressed be- tween these two, he hesitated be- fore taking up Gene's burden against Carver, who was acting no less than a ruffian's part to- wards the girl, whom Happy had every reason to believe he loved. Happy now came to her rescue by saying, "Mis Reynolds and I have been friends and acquaint- ances for a long time. I knew her mother, who is now dead and it was of her we were speak- ing when you came in. ) > At this remark, Gene gave a sigh of. relief, inwardly thanking Happy for the lie he had told, as she knew, to help her out of a difficult situation. The Bridge Builder in a cold, commanding voice which chilled Gene's heart and a look that sent creepy feelings over Happy, said : "I am just going into Fort Fraser on some business, will you ride back to town with me Miss Rey- nolds?" CHAPTER X. Once out into the open air, Gene felt herself much relieved. Her meeting with Happy and the unexpected interruption of the Bridge Builder had so worked upon her nerves that she was scarcely able to cope with his cold, shrewd questions, or out- wit his searching gaze. The two rode for a mile or two for the most part through a beauti- ful poplar grove, Aue of those beauty spots for which the great Nechaco Valley is famous. While the sun, out in the open at this time of the year is very hot, within the small, thickly growing poplar groves the atmosphere is always cool and inviting. As the riders gained the open country at a point where several new- comers had secured small farms and Avere helping one another to erect cabins and fences, prepara- tory to spending their first win- ter in their adopted and favored locality. Gene remarked, "It's a wonderful thing to live in r> great, new land, vvhere ev- er . ling is free and open, where ali ^hare the common burdens of lite with a light heart — where all have the self same purpose in life, to become the owners of a large farm and enjoy its conse- quent independence. My life has been singularly disappointing in this respect. I have always lived where there is nothing but strife, nothing but bickering, lies and deceit — where freedom was an unknown quantity — where each individual was pulling at the others' heart strings in an effort to trampk upon the unfortunate, to the credit of the more aggres- sive and perhaps less honest in- dividual, who succeeds in so- ciety." The Bridge Builder had been secretly admiring Gene. She was fascinating to a degree and alone with her, along a great, new^ highway, flanked on either side as far as the eye could reach with small homesteads, slowly but surely building into magnificient homes, where happiness was de- picted on the faces of each farm- er or child, they passed Gene seemed to breathe the happiness of her surroundings, her face beamed with its natural sweet- ness and the added absorption of her present environment, induced increased charm to her personal- ity. As they rode on, she had completely regained her self-com- posure. Although she had been severely tried in the ordeal of facing Happy and asking his forgiveness and later the suspi- cious gaze of the man she dearly loved, she threw off these un- pleasant thoughts and was now taken up with the country life, into which she had only recently come. Her questions and her apparent interest in all condi- tions for the welfare of the new community, so arrested the at- tention of the Bridge Builder, that he completely forgot that he had intended to question her fur- ther regarding her association I with Happy and Bob Morris. Time passed quickly and before the Bridge Builder realized the distance covered, they were en- tering the outskirts of the big, new town on the Nechaeo. The sound of the Fort Fraser saw- mill, a large lumbering plant, could be plainly heard in the dis- tance, along the shores of the upper Nechaeo, and the hammer of the workmen on the many Chamberlain Avenue to Corpora- tion Street, where the Bridge Builder said good-bye to Gene and stopped in front of the bank, in Avhich he had some business with its manager. Gene, after bidding him good-bye, spurred her horse into a fast gallop and rode on out to Fifth Avenue, where she had made a former engagement for dinner. The liridge Builder finished his busi- The Brid{,'e Builder and Gene rode on into town, turninj,' down Chamberlain Avenue to Cori)oration Street. new houses, building in the town ness with the banker, then rode and suburbs, created an almost down to the lumbering plant and deafening noise. placed a large order for rough The Bridge Builder and Gene lumber to be delivered along the rode on into town, turning down right-of-way the following day, 29 after which he, in company with Will Brown, whom he had met on the street, entered the Fort Fraser hotel for dinner. Seating themselves at a tahle near a win- dow and well to the rear of the room, the men gave their orders hurridly, as was their custom and soon found themselves engrossed in a careful observation and study of the many new people who were enjoying the evening meal at the new and already promin- ent hostelry, which boasted of the best service along the line between Prince Rupert and Ed- monton. "There are many new families locating here lately. When I stay at the ranch for a few days, I scarcely know anyone on my return to town and the demand for all kinds of supplies is on the increase daily. I am think- ing of. increasing our store to double its present capacity, and this will necessitate securing ad- ditional help from the coast cities. I hope I am lucky in se- curing another such as Miss Reynolds. She is the best sales- woman I ever had behind the counter." Thus Brown rattled on in a sort of lazy manner, commenting on Gene's many virtues and her ability, as he helped the Bridge Builder to a generous portion of a double tenderloin, winding up his remarks by asking how the love affair was progressing. The Bridge Builder, wishing to avoid the subject, remarked on the excellent cuisine of the New Hotel, to which Brown replied, "Well, its not all in the cooking. Most any one could furnish an excellent table in the Nechaco, where the best of vegetables and the choicest of beef can be had. Why, 1 tell you. Carver — when you have finished your work here and are transferred to other parts, you will miss Fort Frnser and its fine products. Last year, when I went to Europe with my fam- ily, I almost starved for want of good, ripe wholesome fruit, veg- etables and cream. I am actually ashamed to tell you what 1 think of the stuff they call cream in the large centres which I visited on my trip. I often wished as I travelled about and saw the misery and hardship of the people in the large cities, that I could bring them all back with me and turn them loose in the Nechaco, where they could enjoy the freedom and riches of God's country. The Creator of the Universe never intended that people should all huddle up in certain, small and crowded dis- tricts to become a prey one upon another for their very existence. I tell you. Carver, your railroad is doing a great and good act towards humanity in building this road through the country. The Nechaco is big enough and rich enough to furnish susten- ance, independence and happi- ness to millions of people, and I look soon to see this vast district filled with millions of happy, prosperous farmers and mer- chants. ' ' **I agree with you perfectly," broke in Carver, "and I expect to make the Nechaco my home. After I have finished my activ- ities with the Company, I mean to settle down somewhere in the Nechaco and spend the remain- der of my life among the beauti- ful surroundings this district af- fords." By this time the men had near- .30 ly finished their meal and were gazinj^ ont of tlie window ahmg the avenue wliieh was fast be- coming a trade street. The new town was just beginning to take on a metropolitan air. Several new and imi)osing business blocks were in eouree of construction, preparatory to housing large stocks of merchandise, and farm- ing implements. Here and there. over tlie entire townsite, active work could be seen in clearing and excavating for both commer- cial and residence buildings. After the meal, the two friends wandered out into the main lob- by of the hotel and occupied two large, comfortable chairs for a while, quietly enjoying an after- dinner cigar. Both men were watching a large party of sett- lers who had just arrived from the south in autos, when their at- tention was directed to Gene Beynolds, as she rode by at a rapid clip. Following Chamber- lain Avenue for a short distance, she turned down Corporation street toward the river, and was soon lost to view. The Bridge Builder watched her disappear and turning to Brown, said in an undertone. "I've something of importance to talk to you about. I will ride back with you as far as your home." Motioning to a servant, the men ordered their horses and rode out slowly into the rural district, casually remarking on the rapid growth and develop- ment that had taken place dur- ing the -last year. ** Brown," said Carver, "I have some strange things to tell you which I want you to listen to carefully, noting all the de- tails and after I have finished. I want your best and candid judgment of what the solution is or will be. To l>egin with, it is needless for me to tell you that up until a few days ago, I was desperatelv in love with Gene Reynolds." "Yes," said Brown, "and now you two have had a (luarrel. Mrs. Brown has told me all about it and you are foolish enough to think that you can never forgive her for some trif- ling thing and that your life is ruined. Don't worry, old Man — you have less sense than I thought you had. As a matter of fact, I think all men are d — n fools where women are concerned." "What did Mrs. Brown tell you?" asked Carver. "Oh," replied Brown, "she described Miss Reynolds coming to our home late the evening after she made that fool ride out to your camp to take care of you. On her arrival anyone could have seen that she was in a high state of nervousness, fly- ing into a rage at the mention of your name and said as could be expected, that you and she could never marry." Brown laughed at the picture he had drawn of the girl's rav- ings and was merely amused at the two lovers and what he be- lieved to be a quarrel about some trifling matter, too silly to even talk about, when his attention was startled at the expression on the Bridge Builder's face. "Please, don't make light of what I have to say. It is not a lover's quarrel. Miss Reynolds and I have not quarreled, but it is of her and the night you speak of that I wish to confide in you." Something in Carver's tone precluded any further nonsense 31 and Brown's face inuncdiately took on a look of seriousness, as the Bridge Jinilder described Gene's actions of the night in (juestion. The Bridge Builder described in detnil the meeting of Gene and Bob INIorris, their actions and repeated what he was able to hear of their con- versation. Brown listened in- tently. He was even more sur- prised at her actions than the man who loved her, and could offer no excuse whatever as Carver continued with a descrip- tion of his meeting early in the day, with Gene and her apparent interest in the man wiio had saved Brown's life. After the narrative had been told in all its details of the two incidents, the two men rode on in silence for some distance, when Brown, re- membering the incident in the tent, the same day of the acci- dent, explained to Carver that f-"'M' lind recognized the tramp and now he remembered that she had called him "Happy." He further explained that she had begged him not to mention the fact to Carver, which he had promised not to do. "This then, explains to me hoAv she first came to know the individual who stumbled into our camp and saved your life. Well! What is the answer?" The Bridge Builder was im- patient, evidently thinking that Brown could solve the problem immediately, but in this he was disappointed, as Brown was even more puzzled than the Bridge Builder himself. By this time the two had reached Brown's home and had reined up their horses in front of the large gate to the left of the big farm house. "I can give you no answer," said Brown. "It is all a queer piece of business. To me only one thing is possible which may throw some light on the identity of the tramp. On leaving the other day, I brought with me what clothes and effects the tramp had, intending to have them mended and washed. Among these clothes, Mrs. Brown found a small bundle of papers. Of course, up to now, I have not opened them, holding them as a sacred trust, but for the good of all concerned, I will open them tonight, and let you know tomorrow what their con- tents are, or if anything can be learned that will throw any light on the present difficulty.'^ CHAPTER 11. The Bridge l^uildtr waved a goodbye from down the road as he rode rapidly off to camp, while Brown passed through the large gates and rode slowly to- Avards his magnificent new home, where he was met by a farm hand who took his horse and I^rown disappeared through a side entrance to the house, off the large w^est varanda. Brown went immediately to a small room just off the large living room, which he used as an office and library and going directly to the safe, he opened it and took therefrom a small package of papers that had been care- fully wrapped in strong, brown paper and tied with a strong cord. The package shoAved con- siderable "wear, as if it had been carried in this manner for some length of time. Brown laid it on the table and, pulling up a chair, sat for some time quietly smoking and gazing at the pack- age, which he felt would un- 32 ravel at least, the identity of the man it the camp, ^vho had, by his daring and strengtli, sav- ed his life. Something about the act wiiich he was about to do was rei)ugnant to him. lie knew that he was betraying a trust and that he had no right t^ open or examine into the seerets contained within the small pack- age which lay before him. P>rown was about to do some- thing whicli he would have de- nounced in anyone else, and something which he had never done before. He felt, however, that there were extenuating cir- cumstances in this case. The owner had saved his life, and he meant to reward him for this. He should know his identitv so as to be more able to judge what the nature of the reward should be. He felt, from what he knew, and had been told by the Bridge Builder, that these papers would perhaps, throw some light on the past of Gene Reynold, Avho held a position of trust in his employ and now that she was known to have some connection with Bob ]Morris. a man Ih'own would not trust, he felt he should know something of her past and what part Morris was playing in his present adventure. And again, he knew the Bridge Builder to be a man of more than ordinary ability, though perhaps a cold, shrewd judge of human nature and affairs. He had always done, or caused to be done, as far as his ability al- lowed, those things which he be- lieved to be right and just, re- gardless of influence. Brown and the Bridge Builder were, and had been, fast friends since their first meeting, the dyn- amic force of the latter, compel- ling resi)ect from all, and espec- iallv such men as Brown, who loved justice above all rise. The liridge liuilder was now in a position to be injured by virtue of his love for this girl, aiul for this reason more than any other. Brown determined to aid his friend by Avhatever evidence there might be gleaned from the pa[)ers before him. More than an lionr elapsed during which time Brown had Silt almost motionless exce[)t for the occasioiud gesture of the hand in removing his cigar from his lips or replacing the same. Finally, he reached for the pack- age and ({uickly undid the wrappings. A dozen or more letters were in the bundle, the one on top addressed *Mohn Brown," with the familiar post-mark of his home in England and the hand writing was that of — "IMother." Brown knew the handwriting and with trend)ling hands opened the envelope and sat motionless, staring at the contents. Gene Reynolds, after leaving the main thoroughfare, struck off across country aimlessly. She was verging on a complete nerv- ous breakdown. For the last few days, or ever since her dis- covery of the present where- abouts of Happy, she had not had a moment's peace. She was continually censuring herself for the part she had played against Happy, and for her unwise ac- ceptance of a compact with Bob ]\[orris, whom she loathed, to nn- duly influence the Bridge Build- er. It was a beautiful, warm evening — one of those long, sum- mer, twilight evenings for which the Xechaco was famous and 33 all unconscio isly, her horse had taken a trail leading directly to- ward IJob Morris' cabin and the Bridge Builder's camp. Gene loved her saddle horse and, ■while riding through the tall peavine and vetch almost waist high, she allowed her horse the freedom of his head, that he might eat his fill of the nutritious wild grasses that grow there so abun- dantly. The horse wandered about in the tall grass, until fin- ally he stopped at the bank of a beautiful, clear brook. Every- thing was (|uiet, even the birds that sang so sweetly all the long, summer day had hushed their notes until the sun of the coming morning would awaken them. Gene slipped from her horse and allowed him to wander at will, as he enjoyed the fresh, green grass all about. Two hours or inore later, Gene jumped to her t'ect from a sound sleep. The crack of a rifle had brought her to her feet instantly. Her horse was not in sight — it had grown dark and now she could distinctly hear the beating of running horses, and a moment later, another sharp report rang out on the midnight air — a heavy thud was heard in the distance, and then all was death- ly still. Gene was beside herself with fear. She had lost the trail and di'^ not know in what direction to go. She started to run along the shore line of the small lake, stumbled over a log got up and turned directly into the underbrush, where she scram- bled on until out of breath, she fell breathless, scratched and bleeding, — her hair dishevelled and part of her clothes torn from her body, into the road leading to and not far from the 34 Bridge Builder's camp. Another moment a bullet whistlt'd passed her ears, sin* dropped behind a stump and screamed for help at the top of her voice. "Stand in the oj)en and hold up your hands!" The command came in the slow, cold voice of the Bridge Builder. Gene obeyed, and as the large form of the Bridge Builder came near enough for her to recognize him, she swoon- ed and dropped unconscious to the ground. When Gene came to her senses she found herself lying upon a cot in one of the Companies log cabins, generally used for the housing of construction supplies. The room was practically empty except for a large coil of rope and a few kegs of nails. A cot had been brought in for her use and a lighted lantern hung at the far end of. the room, which gave off a dull, sickly light. Gene got up from the cot on which she had been placed in an unconscious condition, her body was chilled from the cold night air and sore from many bruises. Her clothes were torn and dusty, her hat was gone and altogether, Gene Reynolds was about as miserable as a human being could possibly be, and looked as it she had aged years. Gene walio d to the window of the cabiii. She knew it was late and much to her surprise, she saw groups of men standing about, evidently in earnest con- versation and occasionally she could see them point in her direc- tion. She now recalled her ex- periences early in the evening and the command from the Bridge Builder. Of a sudden, a great tVar seized her and she shook from head to foot, rush- ing to tlie door, whieh to her horror slie found loeked. Sh«» screamed for lielp and heat "with ])oth her hands upon tlio door. Af.ter a moment she stood still, her fear still g. owing. She was deathly pale, her breath came and went in (piick succession and she was afraid of her very self. Suddenly she realized that the camp was aroused and some one was unlocking the door. She heard the padlock spring 0{)en and the iron bar, that held the door, drop and as the door swung open, she rushed out, only to fall into the arms of the ]iridge liuilder, who forced her back into the cabin, closely followed by Will Brown. Now voices could be heard all about the ca- bin, and. as the Bridge Builder pushed Gene bfick upon the cot where she had been lying. Will Brown rushed at her and it was with considerable difficulty that, the Bridge Builder held him from doing some bodily harm to her. Will Brown tvas acting more like a crazy man than anything else. The Bridge Builder was doing his duty as he saw it. He had taken Gene into custody as was his duty as a provincial of- ficer, believing she had commit- ted a crime, and regardless of his love for the girl. He would have treated her in the same manner, had she been his sister. With him, relation or friendship ceased when an ac- knowledgement of same inter- fered with justice, but on the other hand, no one in his cus- tody could be abused even b.y those whom they had injured. Will Browm, as a usual thing, 35 did not show any temper, but when he (li > tempts to good cause "You liave no right to say that Carver. You and I have been friends for a long time. You know that Happy was nearly killed by this woman and you also know that Happy is my brother," The last remark completely dazed Gene. She stepped back- wards and sat heavily upon the couch, then looked first at one and then the other. Both men were watching her closely and at the same time exchanged puzzled glances. She did not act guilty and the fact that she was being held accused of the crime did not seem to interest her half as much as Happy's condition and the fact that he was Will Brown 's brother. Her first question, after she had recovered her composure, was even more perplexing to the men. "How do you know this, Mr. Brown?" she said. "I am so glad for his sake. He always said he had a good brother some where in the world." "Whv did vou try to kill him?" thundered Brown, as he advanced toward her. Gene was so afraid of Will Brown that she could scarcely make any reply. She shrank from him as she said. "T— I— don't deny it." "Happy was found in his tent with a knife wound in his neck," explained Brown, "the knife is one you could easily get or have in your possession, and was found near the body, together with your whip. You were found by in your present condi- after vour horse had been a man without eluded and was afterwards cap- near tion, shot by Bob Morris, whom you 86 tured by Mr. Carver. We have Morris' complete story of how he saw you leave the camp. Mor- ris is positive and we have all the evidence necessary, so don't think you will escape." "Bob Morris killed ray horse, did he, and he says I tried to kill Happy, did he — " broke in Gene in a low hard tone. "Please do not answer or talk of the matter for the present." Gene got up, walked to the window and looked out over the fields. Daylight was breaking forth and some of the men could be seen coming from their camps. In the meantime, both men had been watching Gene closely. Suddenly she wheeled around. "Does Happy say that I tried to kill him?" "He has noi, spoken so far. The surgeon says he will live and will bo able to talk in a few hours. ' ' "Has Happy seen Bob Mor- ris?" Gene asked. "Xo!" said the Bridge Build- er, "I do not think Happy has ever seen him." "Then don't mention his name in Happy's presence until after the doctor has pronounced him out of danger from any mental shock. Remember this, and let me know at once when Happy is able to talk — and now, please leave me alone." Both men left the cabin, and as they did so. Gene said to the Bridge Builder: "Please do not lock the door. Place a guard to watch me if you will, but you have my word that I will not leave until the guilty one is brought to a con- fession." The Bridge Builder looked first mmMM at Brown, and then at Gene. "Take a chance," said Brown, ""she cannot get away and some- how, although she has not de- nied the act, I feel differently about her now than I did." Consequently, Gene was left practically free with simply .i watch over her and an admoni- tion not to talk to anyone. The hreakfast bell rang and all hur- ried in to devour a hearty meal. The climate of the Fort Fraser district is conducive of good ap- petites, and, as the bridge gang «at eating heartily, Brown and the Bridge Builder were discuss- ing their impressions of Gene and the probable cause of her act. So far, neither man had thought of the possibility of an- other committing the crime. Why did she speak of Bob Morris as •she did? Why did she want us to keep Bob Morris' name from Happy, until after he was strong ■enough to stand a shock? Why did Bob Morris kill her horse and try to kill her also? Both men jumped to their feet "with the same impression at the same time. At the door, an Indian sat motionless. He was waiting for his breakfast and watching the cabin in which Gene was held. "Get your h'lse and mine quick. I want ^ ou to go with me." The Indian knew that some- thing had hai)pened and in a moment he was back riding^ his own horse and leading the Bridge Builder's. The latter jumped .ato the saddle motioning the Indian to follow. The cook came to the door and thrust a bag of meat and bread into the Indian's hand. As the two started off, Brown said : "I will look after the girl un- til you return with Morris." Down the road the two went at a keen gallop, rounding the small grove of poplars and off across the valley a short distance to where Bob Morris' cabin stood. The Bridge Builder was the first to reach the cabin. He dis- mounted and rapped on the door, but no one answered, nor was there any sign of life. By this time the Indian had come up and said to the Bridge Builder: "Morris gone. He go early this morning." "Gone where?" demanded the Bridge Builder. "I don't know. Indian boy say he saw him on other side of river, riding very fast." The Bridge Builder thought for a moment, and then threw his heavy form against the door, which gave way, almost throw- ing the Bridge Builder on his head into the middle of the room. Inside, everything was in confusion. Evidently Morris had left in a hurry. After a moment's thought, the Bridge Builder said to the Indian "Can you catch Morris?" "Yes:" Indian catch him quick. He kill Happy. White girl no kill Happy. Indian heap know. I like White girl. Me bring him back — maybe me bring him back dead — maybe not — me don't kno^v." "Take my horse," said the Bridge Buikh-r. "he is sure and fast. Here is my gun and some money. Follow him until you find him." Tlip Indian merely grunted. He took the gifts as a matter of course. As he settled down in the fine new saddle, and on one of the best pieces of horse flesh ever raised in the Fort Eraser dis- trict, he raced 'dway in the direc- tion of where Morris had last been seen, with a sober look of determination on his face. CHAPTER XIT. The Bridge Builder returned to camp on the Indian's pony and soon found Will l^rown, who was pacing to and fro outside the Surgeon's tent, waiting for some news of Happy's condition. Hap- py had been stabbed while asleep, by some one riding into the camp, who had disappeared before any one was awakened. The finding of the riding whip belonging to Miss Reynolds and a new knife such as she sold from the stock under her care in the store and further, from the fact that she was discovered nearby, had fixed the crime upon her. Happy per- haps could not tell who the as- sassin was or the motive, and as he had lost so much blood before he was found, he had not yet spoken. The Surgeon however, had given hope of his recovery and believed Happy would re- gain sufficient strength during the day to talk. Will Brown could hardly re- strain himself. He had not spoken to his brother since his discovery of Happy's identity and there were so many things he wanted to talk to him about. The Bridge Builder hurrie