"I will not," answered Bruce, and in a moment Owen appeared, and between them they compelled Hildan to return to the offices. Half a dozen men had been aroused by the running and shouting, and soon the offices began to fill up. Many were glad to see Mr. Wilbur and shook hands with him. All were astonished to learn the news that part of the lumber tract belonged to Dale, and not to Balasco. "I reckon he'll make a good enough boss," said one of the men. "I liked him and Webb the minute I clapped eyes on 'em," and others said the same. A conference lasting until sunrise followed, the principals to the talk being Mr. Wilbur, Ulmer Balasco, Hildan, Dale, and Owen. Before it was over both Balasco and Hildan weakened completely, and promised to do anything that Jefferson Wilbur wished if he would not prosecute them. "All I wish both of you to do is to treat me and Bradford fairly," said Jefferson Wilbur. "I'll do it," said Ulmer Balasco. "So will I," put in Foxy Hildan. "And I'll help you with that contract, too, if you say so." "I don't want your assistance," responded Jefferson Wilbur coldly. "You just leave us alone and we'll put that contract through with bells on," came from Owen. Then he squeezed Dale's hand. "And to think, Dale, you are part owner of this lumber tract! It beats all!" "It certainly does beat all," answered Dale. "I'll be a lumberman now and no mistake--and you shall be my head man, that is, if Mr. Wilbur will agree." "And that will suit me," said Owen. "Tell you what, coming out to Oregon was a lucky thing for us, wasn't it?" * * * * * Let me add a few words more and then bring this tale of "Two Young Lumbermen" to a close. In due course of time the necessary papers were drawn up which gave to Dale undisputed possession of the land claim which Ulmer Balasco had for so many years called his own. Balasco signed off every alleged right, and in addition paid Dale the sum of four thousand dollars, cash received for lumber sold outside of the Wilbur-Balasco Combination. Then Balasco disappeared, and with him went Foxy Hildan, and the others were glad to get rid of them. As Dale was not yet of age, it was necessary that a guardian be appointed for him. For this service Mr. Rice was called in, and agreed to serve. Jefferson Wilbur could not act, for the reason that a new company was formed by himself and Mr. Rice, the latter acting for Dale. As soon as this formation was complete, Dale went into the office as local manager, and Owen became the head man outside, with Andy Westmore as chief assistant. Bruce Howard might also have had a better position, but he declined.