"Square," said he at last.
"Square," replied California John with equal gravity. They shook hands.
While the newcomers ate supper, California John read laboriously his accumulated mail. After spelling through one document he uttered a hearty oath.
"What is it?" asked Ross, suspending operations.
"They've put me in as Supervisor to succeed Plant," replied California John, handing over the official document. "I ain't no supervisor."
"I'd like to know why not," spoke up Miles indignantly. "You know these mountains better'n any man ever set foot in 'em."
"I ain't got no education," replied California John.
"Damn good thing," growled Ross.
California John smoked with troubled brow.
"What's the matter with you, anyhow?" demanded Ross impatiently, after a while; "ain't you satisfied?"