“Is it a dream?” said Dallas to himself; and then he started, for the judge said sharply to the man before him:
“Now, sir, you and your two friends have come here to dig gold.”
“That’s right, captain.”
“Where did you come from?”
“Washington territory.”
“That will do. Bring in the next witness.”
There was a suppressed buzz of excitement, while Redbeard stood glaring beneath the lamp, and the next man was led in.
“Now, sir, you are not sworn,” said the judge, “but consider that you are on your oath. It is a matter perhaps of life or death. Answer my questions. You and your friends came here to find gold?”
“That’s so, jedge.”
“Where did you come from?”