Dancing tried to look unconcerned and seemed disposed to be friendly. “What might be your line of business?”
“Real estate. I am from Chicago. I sold everything that was for sale in Chicago and came out here to stake out the Spanish Sinks and the Great Salt Lake––yes. It’s drying up and there’s an immense opportunity for claims along the shore. I’ve been looking into it.”
“Into the claims or into the lake?” asked McCloud.
“Into both; and, Mr. McCloud, I want to say I favor Mr. Dancing’s idea, that’s all. Right wrongs no man. Let Bill see Sinclair and see what they can figure out.” And having spoken, the stranger sank back and tried to look comfortable.
“I’ll talk with you later about it, Bill,” said McCloud briefly.
“Meantime, Bill, see Sinclair and report,” suggested the stranger.
“It’s as good as done,” announced Dancing, taking up his hat, “and, Mr. McCloud, might I have a little advance for cigars and things?”
“Cigars and ammunition––of course. See Sykes, William, see Sykes; if the office is closed go to his house––and see what will happen to you––” added the visitor in an aside, “and tell him to telephone up to Mr. McCloud for instruction,” he concluded unceremoniously.
“Now why do you want to start Bill on a fool business like that?” asked McCloud, as Bill Dancing took long steps from the room toward the office of Sykes, the cashier.