It is within my discretion whether to report the
trespass for legal action. I am willing to believe that you have acted
in this matter without malicious intent. But the trespass must cease."
"What do you mean by that?" asked Welton.
"You must not use that road as a highway, nor the flume, and you must
remove the flume within a reasonable time. Or else you may still get a
permit."
"How long would that take?" asked Welton. "Could it be done by wire?"
Plant lifted a glazed and fishy eye to survey him.
"You would be required to submit in writing specifications of the length
and location of said road and flume. This must be accompanied by a
topographical map and details of construction. I shall then send out
field men to investigate, after which, endorsed with my approval, it
goes for final decision to the Secretary of the Interior."
"Good Lord, man!" cried Welton, aghast. "That would take all summer! And
besides, I made out all that tomfoolery last summer. I supposed you must
have unwound all that red tape long ago!"
Plant for the first time looked his interlocutor square in the eye.
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