Having got rid of his budget of intelligence, Big Denny subsided somewhat. He had something more on his mind, however, and he began in a more serious way:
"And now, Fairbanks, for the real milk in the cocoanut."
"You don't mean to say this isn't all?"
"Scarcely. We might have taken care of you in a less complicated way, only that we made a certain discovery."
Ralph looked interested and expectant.
"It was this: Bardon, the inspector, Bardon, the ex-spy, is connected with Mr. Gasper Farrington."
Ralph said nothing. He recalled, however, the threat of the crafty old capitalist. His enemy had started in to use his influence.
"Yes," declared Denny, "Bardon went straight to Farrington's house. When he left there he went to find some old-time cronies at the Junction Hotel. I had a friend listening to some of his boastful talk. We know at this moment that Gasper Farrington offers him five hundred dollars to get you discharged and away from Stanley Junction."
"Which he won't do!" said Ralph very positively.
"Not while Tim and I are on deck," declared Denny as positively. "Listen, Fairbanks: before Saturday night Forgan will see the master mechanic, before the following Wednesday the master mechanic will see the division superintendent, before the following Saturday the president of the road will have in his possession your full and complete record, beginning with your heroic conduct at the fire at the yards, the rescue of little Nora Forgan, the discovery of the stolen fittings, the saving of the show car to-day, and your general good conduct and efficiency in the service."