“That Bilby!” exclaimed Ruth. “I just felt it in my bones—like Aunt Alvirah—that that creature would annoy us again.”
“Then you are not disappointed,” said Helen drily. “Is that the fellow—that big gawk in the blue suit?”
“No, no! I don’t know him,” said Ruth. “The little fat man tagging after the big fellow.”
For two men from the launch had now stepped ashore. In accordance with orders from Mr. Hammond, the visitors were stopped at the head of the dock. Nobody was allowed on the island without invitation or a permit.
“Let me tell you,” said the man in blue pompously, “that I am a county officer. You’d better have a care, young fellow.”
“Say! I don’t care if you are the King of the Yaps,” said Willie, the boatman. “I have my orders. This is private property. Stay where you are—right where you are, mind!—till I send for the boss.”
“You send for them two Injuns—that is who our business is with,” put in Bilby. “That Totantora and Wonota. I want to see them—not that Hammond.”
Ruth had run to another house to warn those very individuals to get out of the way and to keep out of sight until Bilby’s visit was over. She did not know, of course, who the big man in blue was.
The latter was inclined to be pompous and commanding, even when Mr. Hammond came down to the head of the dock to see him. It was evident that Bilby’s money felt warm in the deputy sheriff’s pocket, and he was determined to give the little fat man full weight for his cash.
“This here business is something that can be settled without any row, Mr. Hammond—if that’s your name,” said the officer, puffingly.