possession of many clothes and of a maid who can be counted on to
freshen things up before they shall be used again. Her father
came home to lunch in high good humor.

``I'll not go down town again for a few days,'' said he. ``I
reckon I'd best keep out of the way. That scoundrelly Victor
Dorn has done so much lying and inciting these last four or five
years that it ain't safe for a man like me to go about when
there's trouble with the hands.''

``Isn't it outrageous!'' exclaimed Jane. ``He ought to be
stopped.''

Hastings chuckled and nodded. ``And he will be,'' said he.
``Wait till this strike's over.''

``When will that be?'' asked Jane.

``Mighty soon,'' replied her father. ``I was ready for 'em this
time--good and ready. I've sent word to the governor that I want
the militia down here tomorrow----''

``Has there been a riot?'' cried Jane anxiously.

``Not yet,'' said Hastings. He was laughing to himself. ``But
there will be to-night. Then the governor'll send the troops in
to-morrow afternoon.''

``But maybe the men'll be quiet, and then----'' began Jane, sick
inside and trembling.