"I want some one to make that crossing," he said.
"A volunteer?" asked Dan, with quickened pulses.
"Yes."
"Will I do?"
"I sent for you to give you the first chance—you've been chafing so at your idleness. We must have steel laid to this point before snow flies. Every hour counts. I daren't risk Mellen or McKay, for they might be disabled. I intended to take charge myself, but I won't be able to walk now for some time." He swore a little, and Dan nodded sympathetically. "I wouldn't send anybody where I'd refuse to go myself. You understand?"
"Of course."
"If either McKay or Mellen were hurt I couldn't build the bridge, and the bridge must be built."
"If Gordon stands pat somebody may be—hurt."
"I don't look for anything worse than a few broken heads, but of course I can't tell. I'll stand behind you with my last dollar, no matter what happens."
Dan laughed. "As I understand the situation you won't have a dollar unless we make the crossing."