“He did so, because he is an old hypocrite,” Mathews said.
“Because his daughter Lizzie is going to marry Gabriel Alamar, and of course, they have to be on friendly terms,” said Hughes.
“That ain't the reason. He fenced a hundred acres the first year, and he never sows outside, so that he's not at all troubled by the Don's cattle,” said Romeo.
“But Gabriel is going to marry Lizzie all the same, and the two families are as thick as can be. Old Mechlin has gone back on us. I wish he would go away,” Mathews said.
“Why should he go? He paid a very good price for his farm, and has made many improvements,” said Romeo.
“Who did he buy from?” asked Darrell.
“From me. I sold him that claim, and took up another a mile up the valley,” said Mathews.
“And a good bargain it was, too,” Romeo observed.
Mathews gave him a black look, but made no answer.
The steamer had now reached the wharf. The deck was filled with passengers and their baggage ready for shore. Pittikin, with wife and daughters blonde and freckled, and Hughes, with his wife and daughters dark and gypsy-looking, were all there, ready for their drive to Alamar.