Reynolds rose to his feet and picked up his hat.

"Suppose I think this over for a few days?" he suggested. "If I get
the fever I shall let you know. In the meantime I shall plug away at
my present job. I can't afford to be idle, for 'idleness is the
holiday of fools,' as someone has said."

"That's fine, Tom," and the editor's face brightened with pleasure.
"And, remember, you shall be supplied with all the money you need, so
do not worry about that."

"Thank you, but I have a little of my own that will last me for a
while. When I run through with it I may call upon you."

"Very well, do as you like, Tom. But think it over and let me know of
your decision as soon as possible."




CHAPTER II

WHEN THE FOG-BANK LIFTED

The _Northern Light_ was lying at her wharf preparing for her long run
to the far Northern Pacific, through the numerous islands studding the
coastal waters of British Columbia, and the United States Territory of
Alaska. All day long she had been taking on board great quantities of
freight, and now on the eve of her departure passengers were arriving.