"The ditch contractor will come up the river to-morrow. It won't take long after he gets to work."
"I am glad to hear that, too. If I can do anything to assist you in getting your drainage work done, pray command me."
"Just what I told him, Senator," boomed Garman's voice behind them.
"We want to help him get his improvement work done promptly."
Garman stood leaning against the custard-apple tree which had hidden his approach and looked at Payne and Annette as he spoke. So far as his expression was concerned the Senator, whom he addressed, did not exist for him. His lips uttered words for Fairclothe's ears; but his lazy, heavily lidded eyes searched Payne and the girl to the bottom of their souls. Roger returned the look steadily; and by the flickering mockery in Garman's eyes he knew that it was Garman's ring that gleamed on Annette's finger.
XXIV
"I was just thanking Senator Fairclothe for influencing me in the purchase of land down here," said Roger deliberately. "If it hadn't been for him, Garman, I wouldn't be here now."
"If that is so," returned Garman, "we must thank him, too. For we wouldn't be deprived of your company for a lot—would we, Annette?"
"Mr. Payne was speaking of the land he bought," said Annette. "The land with the water on it."
"Yes, dear." Garman's mocking eyes were on Payne as he spoke. "Water galore. But Payne is a worker. Youth, strength, high hopes, ambition! Payne will have that water off in a hurry. We'll be glad to see that done, won't we, Senator?"
"Yes, indeed. Improvement work——"