Page:Steadfast Heart.djvu/255

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THE STEADFAST HEART

“He’ll be all right if they strike oil,” said Dave.

Angus shook his head. “I’m not so sure. I’ve been studying the oil business…. I’ve read everything I can find that touches it, and I’m not sure. I believe there is oil.”

“You believe there is oil!… I thought it was your idea that Crane was doctoring up a swindle.”

“Yes, but oil and oil enough are two different matters. If he should get a quart it would set Rainbow crazy…. What Crane will do if he finds oil—but only a driblet of it, is what I’m worrying about.”

“I see,” said Wilkins. “I see.”

“He’s keeping his operations so secret. If only I could find out at the right time what has happened.”

“What happens will happen, Angus. What is it to you?”

Angus regarded Dave gravely. “I—couldn’t see folks who have labored so hard for a little money—robbed of it.”

“But you owe nothing to Rainbow.” Dave said this tentatively. “Rainbow has shown you slight kindness.”

“I—I mustn’t think about that. I mustn’t think about myself. I must—only think about them.”

Dave smiled but did not reply. But he was

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