“Don’t let anybody jump the claim,” cautioned the miner with a laugh, as he rode off, Jerry steering the automobile down the valley.
“There’ll be trouble if they try it,” said the hunter, looking at his gun.
No accidents occurred during the automobile trip. Town was safely reached, and the sheriff lodged his prisoner in jail. Nestor transacted his business with the Government agent, and then Jerry headed the machine back for the camp. There they found everything in good shape.
“Now that our troubles are about over, an’ we’re in possession of our mine, it won’t be a bad idea to dig out a few nuggets for luck,” said Nestor.
“Can we have one?” asked Bob.
“Why, sure, Chunky,” replied the miner. “The claim’s part yours, jest as it is mine. We’re goin’ to share an’ share alike in this deal. I’d never have got to this mine if it hadn’t been for you boys. Have a nugget? Well, I guess yes.”
They went to the top of the hill, and Nestor and Jerry descended the shaft. This second trip more than confirmed the first view of the richness of the mine. The rocky sides of the shaft were fairly studded with small nuggets. Nestor dug out some with his knife, and Jerry did likewise.
“There’s about one hundred dollars,” remarked the miner after half an hour’s work, showing a handful of dull, golden pebbles. Jerry had about the same amount.
“Now we’ve got to git ready to work this claim,” said Nestor. “I’ll attend to all that, seein’ as how I’m familiar with the business. But, first, we’ll go up an’ show the others what we have.”
As they neared the top of the shaft they heard quite a commotion on the surface. The voices of men in dispute could be heard.