"I can't say as to that, Mr. Rice. I'm a newcomer here. I came West only a few weeks ago."
"I used to know Wilbur years ago, and he was a fine fellow. I wish he was here now, instead of Ulmer Balasco."
"Do you? So do I," answered Owen, before he had stopped to think twice.
"Ah, then you know Jefferson Wilbur?"
"Yes, sir. He helped a friend and myself to get out here. We were out of a job and he gave us a letter of recommendation to Mr. Balasco."
"I see. What is Mr. Wilbur doing now?"
"Attending to his lumber affairs in New York, I believe."
"Well, he ought to come out here—I think it would do him good."
There was a significant tone in Philip Rice's voice that did not escape Owen's notice. He wondered if he had best ask this man some questions concerning Ulmer Balasco and Foxy Hildan.
"Has Mr. Balasco been here long?" he questioned in an off-hand manner.