"Of course. There is no objection to your doing so."
"I will ask Bob Jarvis to help me. He is a shrewd boy, and he may see some things that I might not notice."
"He will have to be pretty keen if he does," laughed Mr. Penton. "I cannot imagine much of anything escaping your observation. But, my lad, you have some reason for wanting to do this. What is it?"
"I want to find out how the accident occurred."
"Ah, you suspect something?"
"I do not know whether I do or not. Perhaps I am curious. Most boys have some curiosity, you know, sir."
"Go ahead, but do not try it until you are well and strong. We can't afford to have you laid up again. We need you, you know."
A faint flush stole into Steve Rush's face. He had grown to be very fond of the big-bodied, big-hearted superintendent of the Cousin Jack Mine in the few months that he had known him.
"I thank you, sir. You are very kind to me. I want to tell you how much I appreciate it all."