“‘It’s strange you’ve never heard a word from him,’ said Higgins.
“‘Four years,’ answered Haig.
“‘He’s probably off in South Africa somewhere.’
“‘Or India. It’s a long trail be followed, no doubt.’
“‘You can only wait, I suppose,’ Higgins said.
“‘Well, I’ve nothing else to do,’ Haig replied, with a laugh.” Smythe paused.
“That’s something to think about,” he said musingly. “Who is this ‘he’? And why is Haig waiting for 119 him? Well, that was all I heard about that. Higgins next asked Haig if he wouldn’t please change his mind about riding down to see them.
“‘No,’ Haig answered. ‘I never go anywhere. I’m not very sociable, no longer a gregarious creature. Ask my neighbors about that!’
“‘Oh, hang your neighbors! This is different. We’re not living here, and we can’t pester you. But you see I got Hail Columbia from my wife for not bringing you to see her in Denver, and she’s dead set on getting acquainted with you here. She says you’re the most unselfish man in the world. I’d be jealous if––’
“‘Oh, come now!’ protested Haig, laughing.