"Jimmery! he'm coming back to hisself!" murmured Putt.
Then Malherb spoke again.
"Wonder as you will. What are your thoughts to me? Work—work on—all of you, and keep your wonder to yourselves."
His daughter, like the rest, felt upon the brink of mystery, yet doubted not but that her father would presently explain. She was bitterly disappointed yet not surprised.
At last Malherb flung down a pick and mopped his forehead.
"'Tis done—to the last corner!" he cried. "And what have we found?"
"A dead dog, some old rotten boxes, some-candle-ends and some crustes, your honour," said Mr. Beer.
"So be it. I thank God—before you all I thank God! And let each man remember this day!"
He pulled off two heavy signet rings, the only adornments that he wore, gave one to Beer and the other to Harvey Woodman.
"Keep them for a sign of your fruitless labour. And you men, come to me to-morrow: I've a guinea for each of you. Remember, all, that I'm your best friend for evermore. I'll never forget one of ye! You stare, you good, worthy clods—well, stare and wonder. It is your part to do so. Know at least that my heart is light."