" "Why did they think that,
dear?"
"That amazing rascal Buck Ogilvy used to be a C. M. me that the money
had been deposited in escrow there awaiting formal deed. That money
puts the Cardigan Redwood Lumber Company in the clear--no
receivership for us now, my dear one. And I'm going right ahead with
the building of the N.C.O.--while our holdings down on the San Hedrin
double in value, for the reason that within three years they will be
accessible and can be logged over the rails of the Northwestern
Pacific!"
"Bryce," Shirley declared, "haven't I always told you I'd never
permit you to build the N.C.O.?"
"Of course," he replied, "but surely you're going to withdraw your
objections now."
"I am not. You must choose between the N.C.O. and me." And she met
his surprised gaze unflinchingly.
"Shirley! You don't mean it?"
"I do mean it. I have always meant it. I love you, dear, but for all
that, you must not build that road."
He stood up and towered above her sternly. "I must build it, Shirley.
I've contracted to do it, and I must keep faith with Gregory of the
Trinidad Timber Company. He's putting up the money, and I'm to do the
work and operate the line. I can't go back on him now."
"Not for my sake?" she pleaded. He shook his head. "I must go on," he
reiterated.
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