-f ‘TO CARIBOO AND BACK }—

“I was,” said Mary firmly. “And if I do praise meself, I’m a good cook. But before I agree I must know what the wages will be.”

“Name your price, ma’am; name your price. A good woman like I see you are is a rare sight in these parts, and with a motherly female and a good cook to look at, why the boys ud come to Hunkydory’s in flocks, I reckon. The “Shoo Fly” and the “Cabin Home” would about have to shut up shop!” the moonfaced man squaked delightedly.

“Well then,” said Mary after some reflection, “for the first I’d like to take my wages in board for the crew here. When they’re all settled and earning for themselves we'll talk business again!”

It was plain to see that Hunkydory—whose real name no one knew—was somewhat taken aback at this proposal. To feed six persons, with flour at three hundred dollars a barrel and other things in proportion, was going to come high. He had not exaggerated the cost of bringing stuff from the coast, even though he was used to selling it at an enormous profit. But whatever the cost, a real woman cook for his establishment was too great a treasure and

[181]

Seamer crear ree rene

ae —— I

- IS yet eaten Bree Sw eth e. ee ss nS Eee marr

oo

Oh a ean na ated nn A Na a SO ATS 9 On Iet dane ernt tel TS Ace nme UE Setar ne sisi ee sepa ne ate) anh

een ae

soho