“Many an earnest man has been damped over these wretched mining speculations, Mr Trethick,” said Rhoda sadly, her eyes following him the while.
“Oh, yes,” he said cheerily, “there are plenty of failures in every thing. Fellows read for honours and plenty of them fail, but the men who stick to the work the best generally get somewhere on the list. I’m going to stick to Wheal Carnac, Miss Penwynn, and if one is only last on the list it will be something.”
“To be sure,” said Rhoda, smiling. “Well, Mr Trethick, I wish you every success.”
Geoffrey stopped short to look at her in a bold, straightforward manner that made Rhoda lower her eyes.
“Thank you,” he said frankly. “I’m sure you do. And look here, Miss Penwynn, the first rich vein we strike shall bear your name.”
Rhoda smiled.
“Find it first, eh?” he said. “Well, I will if it is to be found, and I am supplied with the sinews of war. I say, Miss Penwynn, has that Mr Tregenna any thing to do with this affair?”
“Oh, no, I think not!” replied Rhoda, looking at him wonderingly.
“I’m glad of it,” said Geoffrey bluntly.
“May I ask why, Mr Trethick?” she said, watching his earnest face.