There was another person to whom the same applied.

Clarke had preyed on Benson's weakness; but if the fellow had overcome it and should return to farm industriously, his exploitation would no longer be possible.

On the other hand, if he failed to pay off his debts, Clarke saw how he could with much advantage seize his possessions.

Thus both Blake and Benson were obstacles; and now that they had ventured into the icy North it would be better if they did not reappear.
Clarke refilled his pipe, and his face wore a sinister look as he took down a rather sketchy map of the wilds beyond the prairie belt.

After studying it keenly, he sank into an attitude of concentrated thought.
The stove crackled, its pipe glowing red; driving snow lashed the shiplap walls; and the wind moaned drearily about the house.