The Vision Splendid. William MacLeod Raine

the man who made millions in a lucky strike in Alaska?”

      “Same man.”

      James was still incredulous. “How did Chunn happen to pick you for the editor?”

      “He's an old friend of mine. 'Member the day I had the fight with Ned Merrill. Captain Chunn was the man who stood up for me.”

      “And you've known him ever since?”

      “I've always corresponded with him.”

      “Well, I'll be hanged. Talk about luck.” James looked his cousin over with increased respect. He always took off his hat to success, but he had been so long accustomed to thinking of Jeff as a failure that he could not adjust his mind to the situation. “Why, you can't run a paper. Can you?”

      Jeff smiled. “I told Captain Chunn he was taking a big chance.”

      “If he's as rich as they say he is he can afford to lose some money.”

      James took the news of his cousin's good fortune a little peevishly. He did not grudge Jeff's advancement, but he resented that it had befallen him to-day of all days. The promotion of the reporter took the edge off his own achievements.