Nasmyth saw Hames start, but he apparently braced himself with an effort.
“Any way,” replied Hames, “that was ’most four years ago, and there’s not a man who had a hand in it in this Province now.”
Acton shook his head. “There’s one. I can put my hand on your partner Okanagon Jim just when I want to.”
There was no doubt that Hames was alarmed.
“Jim was drowned crossing the river the night the water broke into the Black Crag shaft,” he declared.
“His horse was, and the boys found his hat. That, however, is quite a played-out trick. If you’re not satisfied, I can fix it for you to meet him here any time you like.”
Hames made a motion of acknowledgment. “I don’t want to see him––that’s a sure thing! I guess you know it was fortunate that Jim and two or three of the other boys got out of the shaft that night. Well, I guess that takes me. If Jim’s around, I’ll put down my cards.”
“It’s wisest,” advised Acton. “Now, I’m going to buy that land Waynefleet sold from you––or, rather, he’s going to give you your money back for it. You can arrange the thing with Hutton––who, I believe, supplied the money––afterwards as best you can.”
Nasmyth fancied Hames was relieved that no more was expected from him.