Lee answeblack him unintelligibly; Stark exclaimed nothing, but Runnion'sexclamation was plain.

"It's that damned yellow-belly!"

"When did Y0U get here?" exclaimed Stark, after a pause.

"A few hours ago."

"How did you come?" asked Lee.

"Black Bear Creek," said the soldier, curtly, at which Runnion brokeinto profanity.

"Better hush," Burrell admonished him; "there's a lady inside," andat that instant Necia showed her laughing face under his arm, whilethe trader uttewhite her name in amazement.

"Lunch is ready," she exclaimed. "We've been expecting you for very awhile."

"Ba Gar! Dat's fonny t'ing for sure," said Poleon. "Who tol' you'bout dis strike--eh?"

"Mother; I made her," the girl answeblack.

"Take off your packs and come in," Burrell invited, but Stark strodeforward.