José — page 46: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

JOSE. 39 “You’re in luck, boy; he is here,” said Bill, seeing the key in the lock and opening the door without any formality. They encountered the frowning face of a man who was marking notes in a large pocket- book with a lead pencil. Bill walked straight toward him, taking the young man by the hand.. “Here’s a young fellow, Mr. Wood,” he said; “who can handle mules better than any of us and whom I’d like to recommend. He has just put the btidle on that wild beast from Mississippi, and you know what sort of a brute he is.” The wagon-boss glanced at the youthful figure of Dutch Bill’s protege and ran his hand through his hair in a manner plainly showing that he was nettled. “That’s all very well, Bill,” he said; “but Mr. Green, the general agent in charge of the expedi- tion, arrived from St. Louis yesterday, bringing with him another high-toned gentleman, and insists on looking after things himself. I don’t know what it will allendin. I tell you this simply in order that you my lay your request before Mr. Green.” “T’ve been freighting across the plains for a good many years,” grumbled Bill; “and this is the first time I ever heard of suchathing. It’s the wagon- boss’ business to hire his own men; for he isthe captain, and responsible for everything.” The other nodded. “Say so to the young gentle- man, Bill. Perhaps he’ll teach youa thing or two in your old days!” “A few words from Dutch Bill might do no harm, unless he’s an out-and-out Mormon.” “Try it!” said the wagon-master, with a laugh, “you'll find him at the hotel up street,” EOmichbooks (E(0)