“The invitation comes at a time when circumstances over which I have no control oblige me to decline it. I admire your prudence, Kinney.”
“No, honest Injian, now,” protested Kinney. “Take a day off, and fill up with dead advertisements. That's the way they used to do out in Alkali City when they got short of help on the Eagle, and we liked it just as well.”
“Now you are talking sense,” said Bartley, looking up at him. “How far is it to your settlement?”
“Two miles, if you're goin'; three and a half, if you aint.”
“When are you coming in?”
“I'm in, now.”
“I can't go with you to-day.”
“Well, how'll to-morrow morning suit?”
“To-morrow morning will suit,” said Bartley.
“All right. If anybody comes to see the editor to-morrow morning, Marilla,” said Kinney to the girl, “you tell 'em he's sick, and gone a-loggin', and won't be back till Saturday. Say,” he added, laying his hand on Bartley's shoulder, “you aint foolin'?”