The lumberman and the other clerk consulted in a low voice, after which the official turned to fumble among the records. Not finding what he wanted, he approached Smithers. A whispered consultation ensued between these two. Then Smithers called:
“Take a seat, Mr. Morrison. This gentleman is looking over these townships, and will have finished in a few minutes.”
Morrison's eye suddenly became uneasy.
“I am somewhat busy this morning,” he objected with a shade of command in his voice.
“If this gentleman—?” suggested the clerk delicately.
“I am sorry,” put in Thorpe with brevity, “my time, too, is valuable.”
Morrison looked at him sharply.
“My deal is a big one,” he snapped. “I can probably arrange with this gentleman to let him have his farm.”
“I claim precedence,” replied Thorpe calmly.
“Well,” said Morrison swift as light, “I'll tell you, Smithers. I'll leave my list of descriptions and a check with you. Give me a receipt, and mark my lands off after you've finished with this gentleman.”