If the miners did hear they were much too busy with their suppers to give the matter much attention.
"Little Miss Hurry-up is going to get in a huff. But never mind, Rusher, I guess you're right at that. I had a mother once myself, but that don't stop me from saying whatever I want to you."
"Say what you wish to, so long as you confine your talk to myself," replied Steve. "What you say about me doesn't matter much, anyway. For that matter, I do not think your remarks are of very great consequence, whatever subject you may be discussing."
"What's that?"
"I think you heard what I said."
"What do you mean, young fellow?"
"If you don't understand, I shall try to make it plainer. I mean to say that you act like a rowdy. I shouldn't be surprised if you are one."
Bob Jarvis half rose from his chair. The smile had left his face, giving place to an angry scowl.
"So, you—you are looking for fight, eh?" he demanded, thrusting his chin forward belligerently.
"No, sir; I am not." Steve did not even look up as he made the reply, but calmly proceeded with his supper.