Mick dodged in time, but the second, thrown lower, hit
him on the thigh. Mick gave a roar of pain. Rolf
hastily seized more stones and shrieked out, "You come on
one step and I'll kill you!"

Then that purple visage turned a sort of ashen hue.
Its owner mouthed in speechless rage. He "knew it was
the Indian had put Rolf up to it. He'd see to it later," and
muttering, blasting, frothing, the hoary-headed sinner
went limping off to his loaded wagon.


*"Skookum" or "Skookum Chuck," in Chinook means "Troubled waters."



Chapter 5. Good-bye to Uncle Mike

For counsel comes with the night, and action comes with the day;
But the gray half light, neither dark nor bright, is a time to
hide away.


Rolf had learned one thing at least -- his uncle was a coward.
But he also knew that he himself was in the wrong, for he was
neglecting his work and he decided to go back at once and face
the worst. He made little reply to the storm of scolding that
met him. He would have been disappointed if it had not come. He
was used to it; it made him feel at home once more. He worked
hard and silently.