mixed up in Dakota politics somewhat, so I've always had a great
admiration for you and I'm glad you've come to Alaska. This is a
big country and we need big men."

"Did you have any trouble?" Dunham inquired when the three had
adjourned to a private room.

"Trouble," said Struve, ruefully; "well, I wonder if I did. Miss
Chester brought me your instructions O.K. and I got busy right
off. But, tell me this--how did you get the girl to act as
messenger?"

"There was no one else to send," answered McNamara. "Dunham
intended sailing on the first boat, but he was detained in
Washington with, me, and the Judge had to wait for us at Seattle.
We were afraid to trust a stranger for fear he might get curious
and examine the papers. That would have meant--" He moved his hand
eloquently.

Struve nodded. "I see. Does she know what was in the documents?"

"Decidedly not. Women and business don't mix. I hope you didn't
tell her anything."

"No; I haven't had a chance. She seemed to take a dislike to me
for some reason, I haven't seen her since the day after she got
here."

"The Judge told her it had something to do with preparing the way
for his court," said Dunham, "and that if the papers were not