"He wouldn't, hey!"
Mr. Braden shook his head sadly. "I am sorry to say that the present condition of affairs is due to his recklessness and mismanagement."
"Huh!" said Turkey.
"It would have been much better," said Mr. Braden, "if I had insisted upon my original view after your father cash—er—was called hence. I felt that your brother was incompetent, and results have proved it. I was weak; yes, I admit that I was weak."
"Then the size of it is, that we lose the ranch?"
"If my claim is satisfied otherwise I shall be very glad. But of course I have to protect myself."
"Who gets it? You?"
"It will be sold publicly to the highest bidder."
"Is that you?"
"I may have to bid it in to protect myself," Mr. Braden explained. "It is forced on me, and I fear others—you and your sister—must suffer for your brother's incompetence."