“How is that arm of yours this morning?”

“Not quite as well as I would like it to be.”

“I called you up to tell you that you will probably hear from the general superintendent this forenoon,” continued Mr. Little.

“About last night’s affair I suppose?”

“In a line with that, yes. He was with me for over three hours last night, and he’s pretty well stirred up. Your injured arm will be a good excuse for canceling your run for a few days.”

“But I have no idea of canceling my run,” declared Ralph. “I’ll have that arm in working shape when the Overland pulls out today.”

“I’m giving you a hint, that’s all,” answered the paymaster. “I feel pretty sure the superintendent intends to schedule you for special duty.”

[CHAPTER VIII—THE OLD SWITCH SHANTY]

Ralph came out of the house with a thoughtful look on his face. His arm was in a sling and he quite looked the invalid. His mother followed him to the door.

“You see, I was the wisest,” spoke Mrs. Fairbanks.