“No, sir; it’s just about the same. Couldn’t be better.”
“Not be better, man! The anxiety is terrible.”
“Oh, no, sir,” said Hardock; “that’s only because you worry yourself over it. Water’s been steadily sinking ever since we began to pump.”
“But so slowly—so slowly, man.”
“Yes, sir, but there’s the wonder of it. Place is bigger than we expected.”
“Then the water is falling, Hardock?” said the Colonel.
“Yes, sir, steady and sure; and whenever the pump has been stopped, the water hasn’t risen, which is the best sign of all.”
“Yes; we must have patience, Jollivet, and wait.”
“Yes, sir,” put in Hardock; “and if I might make so bold as to speak I wouldn’t engage anyone else for the present. When the mine’s dry it will be time enough.”
“No; better get recruits while we can,” said the Colonel.