"They have been trying to get hold of a certain lumber tract up at the Spur Road."
"What of that?"
"I understand your company has been trying to get hold of the same tract of land."
"What business is that of yours?"
"None of my business—-in one way—-but a good deal of my business in another way."
"I don't understand you, Barrock. Stop talking in riddles and get down to business."
"Can I trust you, Mr. Felps? I mean, will you keep a secret?"
"That depends," answered Andrew Felps, coldly.
"I want to help you so that you can get the best of the Barnaby people."
"How can you help me?"