"I don't see why we should bother you," Jim replied with some surprise.
Martin smiled. "For one thing, you had a notion the Cartner people and I were playing a crooked game. Then you're making a good job, and I wouldn't like to see you beat."
"We imagined you wouldn't like our butting in on jobs you thought were yours," Jake observed.
"That is so," said Martin. "If I help, I'll make a proposition, to which I guess you'll be able to agree. In the meantime, we can let it go. Looks as if you'd make good anyhow."
He began to talk about something else and when he set off Jake and Jim went with him down the line. After a time, he stopped them.
"I must hit the trail and not keep you from your job," he said. "I reckon you'll put it over, but if you want some backing, remember my offer stands."
He paused and gave Jake a steady glance. "I like the way you have treated me; your sister is a queen."
Then he went on with his packers and Jake and Jim returned quietly to camp.