"Hurrah!" Merry cried, waving his hat over his head. "There, Joe, is the Queen Mystery, and it is in full blast!"
The Queen Mystery mine was located a long distance from the nearest railroad, but Merriwell had been to the expense and trouble of having the very latest machinery brought there and set up. He had in his employ Jim Tracy, as a foreman, said to be thoroughly capable and reliable. Only about fifty men were employed in the mine at that time; but Merry contemplated increasing the force extensively.
There was talk of a branch railroad being constructed to pass within ten or fifteen miles of the Queen Mystery.
Were the mine to fall into the hands of the mining trust, without doubt that railroad would be constructed, and it would run direct to Camp Mystery and onward. The influence of the great railroad magnate would easily bring about the running of the railroad to suit his fancy.
The mining trust had been completely baffled in its first efforts to get the best of Merriwell.
Frank was welcomed at the mine, where he made himself comfortable.
Old Joe disappeared within six hours after arriving there. He vanished without saying a word to Merry about his intentions.
Two days later he reappeared, Frank finding him sitting, in the morning, with his back against one of the buildings, his red blanket pulled about him, serenely smoking.
"Hello, Joe!" cried Merry. "So you're back?"