"Well, I might do it, if I only knew how to go about it."
"Well, Keeler, I think I can give you a start. And while we eat some dinner I'll tell you a story that will surprise you."
These Californians were certainly two of a kind; but then, two of a kind, though both be kings, is not a strong hand.
CHAPTER VII
An Old Sweetheart
When his guest had been abundantly supplied with the best the larder afforded, not forgetting condensed milk for the coffee, Palmer began his story.
"Since you were here last, Keeler," he began, "I've been to San Francisco. Nothing remarkable about that, of course. Any man might have business at the Hibernia Bank. Then again, it's worth the trip from Moore's Flat just to stand on the seashore an hour."
"Yes," said Keeler with enthusiasm, "there's a noble sight."
"But," continued Palmer, "I'm too old a man for pleasure trips. And for that matter, I'm about through with business, too. I went to San Francisco for a special reason."