plans yet for the way in which the young men are to fail?"

From most strangers this direct questioning would have been offensive.
Jim Duff, however, from long experience in fleecing greenhorns, had
acquired a manner and way, of speaking that stood him in good stead.

After a moment's half-embarrassed silence Fred Ransom burst into a laugh
that was wholly good-natured.

"Mr. Duff, You are unusually clever at reading other's motives," he
replied.

"I went to school as a youngster, and learned how to read the pages of
open books," the gambler confessed modestly. "So you have, as yet, no
plan for compelling the young engineers to fail and quit at the Man-
killer?"

This was such a direct, comprehensive question that Fred Ransom remained
silent for some moments before he admitted:

"No; as yet I haven't been able to form a plan."

"Then engage me to help you," spoke Jim Duff slowly, coolly. "I know
the country here, and the people. I know where to lay my finger on men
who can be trusted to do unusual things. I shall come high, Mr. Ransom,
but I am really worth the money. Talk it over with me, and convince me
that your company will be sufficiently liberal in return for large
favors."

"Oh, the Colthwaite Company would be liberal enough," protested Ransom,