“Yes; if you must know. But, gents, I expect you to do the square thing to a fellow that is down on his luck.”
“We will do the square thing,” said Mr. Whyland. “Take us to the Aurora mine and I will pay all expenses and give you one hundred dollars for your trouble.”
“Is that square?” asked Cottle, leaning forward.
“It is. If you want any references as to my reliability—”
“Don’t want them, partner; the look on your face is enough. I’ll take you up. A week from the day you leave ’Frisco you shall stand in the Aurora mine. I may be a little queer, but you can depend on Felix Cottle every time.”
Oliver had to like the man in spite of his odd manner. Mr. Whyland was also impressed favorably.
After this a long conversation ensued. Cottle said that the Cortez mine was nothing but a “fake” mine, leading underground to the real mine of value, which was the Aurora. For several years Colonel Mendix had reported the latter mine abandoned, which was not the case.
“And the Aurora is really valuable?” asked Oliver.
He spoke calmly enough, but oh, what excitement was in his breast! How much was at stake for his father and himself!