Cinder Path Tales

52 CINDER-PATH TALES to be by the side of the measurer whenthe hammer landed. I saw the tape, it was over one hundred and twelve ; and the yell that fol­ lowed the announcement was enough to mad­ den one whostoodto lose a half-year'searnings. I picked the hammer up, and tested it carefully, balancing it in my hand, andas I held it there came to me a grain of hope. Was itlight, or was I led astray bymy wish? I had seenit weighed by the judge;the head looked full size, andthe handle all right. In those days the handles wereof wood weigh­ ing about a pound, and made the totalseven­ teen pounds or close to it. I had carried the hammer half-way back, when Mac came to me and said, his eyes black withdetermina­ tion, " 'Tis mylast chance, but I'll beat him yet." I gave him no answer, but walked on until Duffy saw me. I was testing his ham­ mer in my hand, doubtful whetheror not to ask for a reweighing, when I caught his eye, and decided. MacNab saw me too, discovering some­ thing queerabout my face, and he and Duffy were at my side together, the latter holding out his hand to take the hammer, his face flushed and his voice husky, as he asked "What in h " I was trying todo. Mac- Nab saidsomething, just what it was I do not know, but it showed his disposition to sup-