They are not dissatisfied in any way, but neither man is yet fit to work.
Besides, both are tired of the mountains, and want to go east together as soon as possible and take up some other line of engineering work.

So---well, Reade, if you want it, you are now chief engineer of the S.B.

& L.in earnest." "Don't trifle with me, sir!" begged Tom incredulously.

"I'm too far from home." "No one has ever accused me of being a humorist," replied Mr.
Newnham dryly.

"Now tell me, Reade, whether you want the post I have offered you ?" "Want it ?" echoed Tom.