“And that is where you have an advantage,” put in Mr. Whyland. “Perhaps you can get into his good graces, and learn much before you make yourself known.”
“That is certainly an idea,” returned Oliver.
From the first hotel they went to a number of others, but nowhere could a trace of the colonel be found.
“I have half an idea he uses a false name while here,” suggested Oliver. “A man like him would not hesitate at anything.”
“It may be so. If it is, there is no use in searching further. Suppose we go around to some of the mining stock brokers or to the exchange? We may find out about him there. We will certainly discover something of the Aurora mine.”
This was agreed to, and the remainder of the forenoon was spent down in Pine and Montgomery Streets. They entered a great number of offices, but no one had heard of the Aurora mine, nor did any one know such a person as Colonel Mendix.
“This completely baffles me,” said Mr. Whyland at last. “I was sure the mine would be known here. How can he work it if it is not known? Such a place must give employment to scores of men. It is a great mystery.”
“We must find out about it,” replied Oliver with determination. “I sha’n’t give up in this fashion. If I can’t find him by his name I’ll see if there isn’t some one who knows him from his appearance.”
“Good! I like such grit!” cried Mr. Whyland. “If your determination has anything to do with it we shall certainly win.”
They were out on the street once more. Oliver had the address of a large hotel on Market Street, and this place he said he would visit and examine the register.