undersell the H.B.C., and more especially the independents, every Indian
in the North will proceed to 'take advantage' of your school and of you
also."

"But they are being robbed!"

Lapierre smiled. "They do not know it; they are used to it. Let me warn
you that to tamper with existing trade schedules, except by one
experienced in the commerce of the North, is to invite disaster. You
will lose money!"

"But you told me that you yourself gave the Indians better bargains than
either the Hudson Bay Company or MacNair."

"I know the North! And you may be assured the concessions are more
nominal than real."

"Very well, then," flashed the girl. "My concessions will be more real
than nominal, and of that you may be assured. If my store pays expenses,
well and good!" And by the tone of the girl's voice, and the slight,
unconscious out-thrust of her chin, Pierre Lapierre knew that the time
was unpropitious for a further discussion of trade principles.

Chloe was speaking again: "But to return to the buildings----"

Lapierre interrupted her, speaking earnestly: "My dear Miss Elliston,
consider the circumstances, the limitations." He tapped lightly the roll
of blue-prints the girl held in her hand. "Those plans were made by a
man who had not the slightest knowledge of conditions as they exist here."