ng the men would yet gain the ascendant.

"He's square," remarked one of his defenders. "There was a mistake in my
time, last payroll, and he looked over the time himself." "That's so,"
in answer to one objector. "I was in the office and saw him."

"You bet he's square," broke in another. "Didn't I get a bad pair of
boots out of the commissary, and didn't he give me another pair in their
place? That's what."

If Morrison and Pierre had not been in active evidence Firmstone would
have won the day without a fight.

CHAPTER V

_Bennie Opens the Pot and Firmstone Comes in_

Firmstone was late to breakfast the day of Zephyr's departure, and
Bennie was doing his best to restrain his impatience. When at last the
late breakfaster appeared, Bennie's manner was noticeably different from
the ordinary. He was a stanch defender of the rights of the American
citizen, an uncompromising opponent of companies and trusts, a fearless
and aggressive exponent of his own views; but withal a sincere admirer
and loyal friend of Firmstone. Bennie knew that in his hands were very
strong cards, and he was casting about in his mind for the most
effective mode of playing them.

"Good morning, Bennie," Firmstone called out, on entering the
dining-room.

Bennie returned the greeting with a silent nod. Firmstone glanced at the
clock.

"It is pretty late for good morning and breakfast, that's a fact."

Bennie disappeared in the kitchen. He returned and placed Firmstone's
breakfast before him.

"What's the matter, Bennie?" Firmstone thought he knew, but events were
soon to show him his mistake.

"Matter enough, Mr. Firmstone, as you'll soon find." Bennie was getting
alarming.

Firmstone ate in silence. Bennie watched with impassive dignity.

"Is your breakfast all right?" he finally asked, unbendingly.

"All right, Bennie. Better than I deserve, pouncing on you at this
hour." He again looked up at the clock.

"Come when you like, late or early, you'll get the best I can give you."
Bennie was still rigid.

Firmstone was growing more puzzled. Bennie judged it time to support his
opening.

"I'm an outspoken man, Mr. Firmstone, as becomes an American citizen. If
I take an honest dollar, I'll give an honest return."

"No one doubts that, Bennie." Firmstone leaned back in his chair. He was
going to see it out.

Bennie's support was rapidly advancing.

"You know, Mr. Firmstone, that I have my opinions and speak my mind
abou