GEORGE FACES DISASTER A fortnight had passed since the affair at the settlement when Hardie arrived at the Marston homestead toward supper-time.

After the meal was over, he accompanied his host and Edgar to the little room used for an office.
"As I've been busy since four this morning, I don't mean to do anything more," said George, "I suppose you don't smoke ?" "No," Hardie answered.

"It's a concession I can make without much effort to our stricter brethren.

I'm inclined to believe they consider smoking almost as bad as drink.

You agree with them about the latter ?" "We try to be consistent," Edgar told him.