the coast was clear. But to her dismay, even after several min-
utes of persuasive pleading, Clyde remained stubborn and
resistant to the idea.
"It's one thing for Gavin to come out here and apolo-
gize," he declared. "But I don't know why he thinks we
should give him a job."
"As I said, it was my idea, Clyde. And you know as well
as anyone that we really need someone to sell ad space, not
to mention help with a dozen other little odd jobs that have
gone undone around here on a regular basis." She glanced
at an overflowing trash can sitting right next to the door.
"I'll get to that," he growled. "Do you seriously think
Gavin would lower himself to take out the trash around
here?"
"I think he should have a chance to try."
"He's had chances!"
She folded her arms and glared at him. "Clyde, you told
me when you first hired me that running this newspaper is
177.
178Melody Carlson
my responsibility. Does that or does that not mean I may hire
whomever I please?"
Clyde looked at the floor, then grumbled without
answering. That's when she knew she had him.
"I say we give him a chance." Then she grinned slyly.
"Besides, it's not like we have to pay him in advance, you
know. If he doesn't work out, the least we'll get is a little free
labor-that should make you happy. And if we're not satis-
fied with his work, we'll just send him packing, okay?"
"You ever hear that story about the camel who sticks his
nose in the tent to get warm? Before you know it, the whole
durned animal is inside the tent and there's not room for
you!"
She waved her hand at him. "Don't you worry, I'll take
full responsibility for Gavin. If it doesn't work out, you can
blame it all on me."
He made a noise that sounded like "hrutr.ph," and then
shook his head. "You can be mighty stubborn when you set
your mind to something, young lady."
"Isn't that why you hired me?" She playfully poked him
in the chest and saw a faint twinkle in his eye.
"Yeah, and I suppose it's a good thing too because I heard
we've got us a big battle coming up with those development
boys. I never did hear the whole story of how your little visit
went with Mr. Big Bucks."
She told him all about Desert Winds and her disap-
pointing findings there. "I've got my story and photos all
ready for this week's paper, but I honestly wish I could've
come back with better news."
He rubbed his hands together. "Well, let's give 'em what