"Perhaps Jerry would go along. Then he and I could have a good time together."
"He might. He is a strong, hearty lad, about your build. I will write a letter to Mr. Baxter, and you can take it to him. You were so successful with the widow Stults, where I did not think you would be, that, perhaps, you can prevail on this old gold hunter to finance the expedition. He and I are old friends, though I have not seen him in some time."
"Write the letter at once, dad, and I'll take it to him."
"Aren't you tired, after your long tramp?"
"No. Besides, I am so anxious that I can't rest."
"Very well. I'll write the letter at once."
After dinner Fred started out, this time on a shorter journey, bearing a letter to Mr. Baxter, explaining matters.
Fred found the old gold hunter in his garden, pulling weeds from an onion patch.
"Well?" he asked, as Fred came up the walk.
"Here is a letter for you, Mr. Baxter."