"It was nothing, sir," said Jack, smiling suddenly. He knew if he caught Garrod's eye he would burst out laughing.
"I now desire to ask you some questions relative to the big canyon," continued Sir Bryson. "I am told you know it."
"I have just come from there," said Jack.
"Is there a good trail?"
"I came by water. But I know the trail. It is well-travelled. There are no muskegs, and the crossings are easy."
"You know the canyon well?"
"I have been working above it for three months."
Sir Bryson favoured Jack with a beady glance. "Um!" he said. And then suddenly: "Are you free for the next month or so?"
Garrod raised his eyes with a terrified look.
"That depends," said Jack.