"I've watched you ever since you came. I can judge of any one, boy or man, if I have time enough to take stock of him. I saw that you were just the man for me."
"Boy," suggested Ernest, smiling.
"Oh, well, I'll make a man of you. By the way, an idea has just occurred to me. You'd better go to Sacramento with me to-morrow."
"I should like to do it," said Ernest, brightening up.
"Then you can notice where I buy my supplies. You may need to go alone sometimes."
"At what time will we start?"
"The stage leaves at seven o'clock."
"I will be ready."