He proved to be a tall, powerful built lumberman, with a well-tanned face and sharp, but kindly, eyes.
"How do you do," he said, as he shook hands.

"Real glad to know you.
Yes, I got a letter from John Laning, my brother-in-law, tellin' me all about you.

He says as how you want a guide fer these parts.

Well, I don't want to brag, but I reckon I know the lay o' the land 'round here about as good as any o' 'em, and a heap sight better nor lots." "We'd like you first-rate for a guide," said Tom, who was pleased with John Barrow's looks, as were also his brothers.

"But can you spare the time ?" "Reckon I can, just now.