As they walked on a brush whip hit the Emperor in the face. He stopped and broke it and flung it down with a word of reproof. He often did that kind of thing—as if the trees and brushes were alive and on speaking terms with him. Sometimes he would stop and compliment them for their beauty.
Soon the young man spoke.
"After all, the law is no better than they who make it," said he.
The Emperor turned as if not sure of his meaning.
"Bribery!" said Master. "Migley got a law passed which provides a fine so low for cutting State timber that he can pay it and make money."
"B-Business is k-king," said Strong, thoughtfully. He perceived how even the State itself had become a subject of the great ruler.
"And Satan is behind the throne," Master went on. "Down goes the forest and the will of the people. I tell you, Strong, the rich thief is a great peril; so many souls and bodies are mortgaged by his pay-roll and his favor. Look out for him. He can make you no better than beef or mutton."
They proceeded on their journey in silence, and, when the sun had turned westward and they sat down to drink and rest on the shore of Lost River, Strong began to write, slowly and carefully, in his old memorandum-book, some thoughts intended for his future guidance. And he wrote as follows
"July the 5
"Strong says 'Man that advises other folks to go to hell is apt to git thair first.'