"Have you lived here long?" he asked.
"Quite a while."
It was clear that Jack did not care to answer definitely, and was disposed to give as little information as possible about himself.
It was yet early when the two travelers felt an inclination to sleep. They had had a hard day's tramp, and wished to be stirring early the next day. As yet, however, they were uncertain whether they would be permitted to sleep in the cabin. Bradley resolved to put the question to the man.
"If you haven't got room for us to sleep," he said, "Ben and I will camp out, as we have done before."
"The old woman's makin' up a bed for you," said Jack. "We don't keep a hotel, but we've got room for you two."
"Thank you."
"Wait here, and I'll see if the bed's ready."
He entered the cabin, probably to consult with his wife.
"I don't know why it is, Ben," said Bradley, in a low voice, "but I mistrust that man."