Presently Beasley strode down the street, and when about to enter the store he espied Dale.
“Hullo there, Milt!” he called, cordially, as he came forward with extended hand. His greeting was sincere, but the lightning glance he shot over Dale was not born of his pleasure. Seen in daylight, Beasley was a big, bold, bluff man, with strong, dark features. His aggressive presence suggested that he was a good friend and a bad enemy.
Dale shook hands with him.
“How are you, Beasley?”
“Ain't complainin', Milt, though I got more work than I can rustle. Reckon you wouldn't take a job bossin' my sheep-herders?”
“Reckon I wouldn't,” replied Dale. “Thanks all the same.”
“What's goin' on up in the woods?”
“Plenty of turkey an' deer. Lots of bear, too. The Indians have worked back on the south side early this fall. But I reckon winter will come late an' be mild.”
“Good! An' where 're you headin' from?”
“'Cross-country from my camp,” replied Dale, rather evasively.