“Then you feel sure of that, Chowne?” said my father, who seemed quite overcome.

“I am certain of it; but of course I can’t say what is the quantity.”

“Silver?”

“Probably. Lead, certain.”

“Then, Sep, my boy—” cried my father excitedly, catching me by the shoulder.

“Yes, father,” I said.

I believe now that my father was going to say something about my growing up to be a rich man; but he checked himself, and only said quietly:

“Come and sit down to tea.”