For the next eight or nine days Jim and the men were occupied running the line across the gap. When he had done so, he stole quietly out of camp for three or four nights, and returning before daybreak, imagined nobody had remarked his absence. Then, one morning, Carrie came up as he was lighting the fire.
"You look tired, Jim," she said. "If you mean to work hard, you must get some sleep."
Jim gave her a sharp glance and she smiled. "You see, I know your step!"
"Ah," said Jim, who did not grasp all her statement implied, "you are very smart, Carrie, and it's plain that I am clumsier than I thought. But do you think anybody else heard me?"
"No. I listened and all was quiet. However, if it's needful for somebody to watch, you must let Jake go."
Jim shook his head. "I've got to see this thing through. Somehow I imagine I can do so better than Jake."
"But you can't keep it up, after working hard all day."
"It won't be for long. We'll break camp soon and move to the next section. You're a good sort, Carrie, but you really mustn't meddle."
Carrie blushed. "I won't meddle if you forbid it. All the same, I'd hate to see you worn out and ill. You're boss, and it would be awkward if you lost control."
"It's only for another night or two. The fellow I'm watching for will have to try again, or let up, before we move camp."