While Mr. Penton did not wholly approve of the attitude of the company, believing in more pacific measures, he had no alternative in the matter. Cavard had been notified of the decision of the officials, and had been told that no farther conferences could be had, at least for the present.
When Steve heard this he shook his head doubtfully.
"That means trouble, Bob," he said.
"It strikes me that there has been nothing but trouble for a long time," answered Jarvis. "What do you think the men will do?"
"I don't know."
"Are you going to the meeting to-night?"
"Yes. We shall both go. I have an idea that it will be a lively meeting. We may not be welcome, but we shall be there, just the same."
That night, as Steve was hurrying to his boarding place, he met Cavard's sister Marie, who kept house now for the walking delegate. She was a pretty young woman, and though Steve never had known her well, she had taken a great liking to the young miner, having urged him, on various occasions, to call and see them. Rush never had done so because he did not like her brother.
Miss Cavard stopped squarely in front of Steve, barring his way.
"Good evening, Mr. Rush," she greeted, extending a friendly hand. "You were in such a great hurry that I thought you were going to run over me."