“No; my days of labor are over. I am sixty-five, and might easily be taken for ten years older. I shall be glad to contribute to your happiness and success, and that of your friend.”
“Perhaps some one may have discovered and worked the claim.”
“No; it is an out-of-the-way place, and has not attracted attention.”
“How, then, did you discover it?”
“By accident. As to the richness, let this convince you: in less than six months I took out ten thousand dollars, and having no need of more, stopped working, and carefully removed all traces likely to betray the mine’s entrance to a casual observer.”
“It will be a great favor to Tom and myself. We ought to give you a share of the proceeds.”
The old man shook his head.
“I shall not live long enough to spend the money I have,” he answered. “You are welcome to all it will yield you. Come here with your friend to-morrow morning, and I will give you the directions that will enable you to find the claim.”
“Can I do anything more for you before I go?”
“Yes; you may go to the stream behind the cabin and bring me some fresh water.”