"You were speaking of a girl on Ranger's farm that the chap Fellows was supposed to be sweet on. Now, as there is one on the same farm that I have had my eye upon for some time, you'll understand the interest I may appear to be taking in this matter. I should like to know the name of the girl referred to, if you can tell me?"
"Oh! is that how the wind blows?" laughed the other.
"Well, I don't want you to go blabbing about the matter; we've all got soft moments in our lives."
"Never fear, my boy! Jack Hart's not the chap to spoil sport."
"Call it sport if you like, but tell me who is the girl this Fellows is after?"
"Her name is Jess Russell. She is the daughter of one of Ranger's men; and they do say as fine a looking specimen of the sex as is to be found in the North-West."
"That's not the one I was thinking about. I don't know her; but beauty though she maybe, I'll back my girl to go one better."
"Poor old Puffey! Hit at last! I shouldn't have thought it of you."
"Well, it's not a case yet; so mind what I've said, that 'mum's' the word."
"Right you are! Nor is it a clear case yet with that Fellows, as it is said a chap named Barton has been noticed sneaking round after the same girl."