"I never promised!" interrupted the other.
"Well, it was the same thing. But if you don't want to go in I can get along without you. I guess you'll find you're not the only one around here who knows about dams and irrigation ditches. I and my son have some brains. We'll show you a thing or two!"
"That's what we will!" boasted Len.
"I'm sure I don't wish to curtail your activities in any way," replied the Chicago man. "I hope you have all sorts of success. But I do not feel like going on with the scheme I outlined."
"Because, I suppose, you're going in with the Bar U folks?" suggested Len.
"I haven't said so," was the quiet retort.
"No, but I can read signs. Well, there's one thing I want to tell you!"
Len went on in threatening tones. "I warn you off our land—you and the
Carson bunch. And as for that Dave, if I catch him I'll give him the worst
licking he ever had."
"Seems to me it was the other way around," retorted Mr. Bellmore, with a grim smile. "At least it was the last time you met."
"Huh!" snorted Len. "Well, tell him to look out, that's all!"
"I don't think there is any need of that," said Mr. Bellmore. "I think
Dave can look after himself. But now I'll bid you good day."