"His assistant."

"I'd like to borrow some money," said Pete timidly. He tucked away the
unlit cigar. "Two thousand. Name of Johnson. Triangle E brand--Yavapai
County! Two hundred Herefords in a fenced township. Three hundred and
twenty acres patented land. Sixty acres under ditch. I'd give you a
mortgage on that. Pete Johnson--Peter Wallace Johnson on mortgages and
warrants."

"I do not think we would consider it."

"Good security--none better," said Pete. "Good for three times two
thousand at a forced sale."

"Doubtless!" The official shoulders shrugged incredulity.

"I'm known round here--you could look up my standing, verify titles, and
so on," urged Pete.

"I could not make the loan on my own authority."

Pete's face fell.

"Can't I see Mr. Gans, then?" he persisted.

"He's out to luncheon."

"Be back soon?"

"I really could not say."