When they entered the office they found Ulmer Balasco pacing the floor. He gazed at them in wonder and scowled.
"It's no use of talking!" he cried, before anybody else could speak. "I've made up my mind, and that settles it."
"We are not here to ask you to take us back," retorted Dale quickly. "If I want work I shall apply to Mr. Webb here for it," and something like a grin overspread his face.
"I don't know what you are talking about," returned Ulmer Balasco, in a puzzled way.
"Mr. Balasco, we'll have to come to an understanding," said Owen, quietly but firmly. "I've got something very disagreeable to tell you, but that can't be helped. To come down to business, I received a telegram from Mr. Wilbur this morning."
The lumber dealer started, and Dale imagined he clutched at the desk to steady himself.
"A telegram?" he repeated slowly.
"Yes, sir. In that telegram he stated that the contract with the railroad must be put through, and that work on the flume must stop."
"Indeed! And what have you to do with my business, I'd like to know."
"Nothing at all, sir, with your business; but everything with Mr. Wilbur's business. He is coming out here as soon as he can, and in the meantime he has appointed me his representative here."