“Byes,” he began, as soon as he had closed the door, “how did the men act the day?”
“As though they were much worried,” Bob replied. “They didn’t talk about it even among themselves as far as I could see, but I know that some of them at least are scared, although they are trying hard not to show it. I reckon that howling last night on top of Devaux’s yarn has got their goat.”
“Sure an’ it’s meself thot’s afraid so,” and Tom rubbed his chin thoughtfully. “Sumpin’s got ter be done and mighty sudd’n too or we’ll lose men thot’s sartin sure.”
At that moment a loud knock sounded on the door.
“Come in,” the foreman shouted.
The door opened and a giant by the name of Baptist Goulet, followed by two others, entered the office. It was at once apparent that the men were ill at ease as they stood just inside the doorway holding their caps in nervous fingers and keeping their eyes on the floor.
“Well, what is it, Baptist?” Tom asked, after he had waited for the man to speak.
Even then the spokesman, Baptist, hesitated. “We—we lak our time,” he stammered.
Tom Bean showed no surprise. It was what he had expected, though not quite so soon.
“Ye mane yer want to quit?” he asked.