"Well," he said, "your statement's, so to speak, the climax! The only person who knows anything about the matter thinks you won't find the vein! The blamed proposition's ridiculous from the beginning." He got up and filled his pipe with an unsteady hand. "I'm too mad to sit still. Guess I'll walk round the orchard and take a smoke."
Farnam presently went after him, and Mrs. Farnam put her hand on Agatha's arm.
"My dear, you have pluck, but you have chosen a hard road and given your friends a jar. But we are your friends; don't forget that!"
Agatha smiled gratefully, though she found it difficult. "I didn't really choose. Sometimes I was afraid; but I knew I had to go."
"Very well," said Mrs. Farnam. "We won't talk about it. Tell me about your clothes."
Next day George left the homestead and Agatha walked across the orchard with him while Farnam harnessed his team. When a rattle of wheels warned them that the rig was coming George stopped and said, "This trip will cost you something and your pay's not high. How much do you reckon to have left when you get back?"
"About ten dollars," Agatha answered with a twinkle.
"I knew you had grit. But I want you to understand! I wouldn't give you five cents to help you find the lode, but you'll go broke on ten dollars long before your next pay's due. Better take this; it may help you out."
Agatha took the envelope, but as she began to open it the rig stopped at the gate, and George put his hand on her shoulder.
"We mustn't keep Farnam; wait until I've gone," he said and kissed her. "I'm not going to wish you good luck, but if you have trouble with the school people when you get back, come along and stop with Florence. I'll interview the managers, and, if needful, find you another job."