I have resolved to
crush this freebooter; since he has purchased your venal courts, then by
the only means left us--force."
Hobart rose from his seat, very pale and erect. His eyes met those of the
great man unflinchingly. "You realize that this may mean murder, Mr.
Harley? That a clash cannot possibly be avoided if you pursue this course?"
"I realize that it is self-preservation," came the cold retort. "There is
no law here, none, at least, that gives us justice. We are back to
savagery, dragged back by the madness of this ruffian. It is his choice,
not mine. Let him abide by it."
"Your intention to follow this course is irrevocable?"
"Absolutely."
"In that case, I must regretfully offer my resignation as manager of the
Consolidated."
"It is accepted, Mr. Hobart. I can't have men working under me that are not
loyal, body and soul, to the hand that feeds them. No man can serve two
masters, Mr. Hobart."
"That is why I resign, Mr. Harley. You give me the devil's work to do. I
have done enough of it. By Heaven, I will be a free man hereafter." The
disgust and dissatisfaction that had been pent within him for many a month
broke forth hot from the lips of this self-repressed man.
Pages:
167
168
169
170
171
172
173
174
175
176
177
178
179
180
181
182
183
184
185
186
187
188
189
190
191