“I wouldn’t judge from your clothes that you were wealthy,” returned Robert, smiling.
“That’s why I wear them. In this valise which I carry, I have about fifteen hundred dollars in gold-dust.”
“You don’t mean it!” exclaimed Robert in surprise.
“Yes; but only half of it belongs to me. I have more at the mines, however. I feared to be robbed, and so put on the appearance of a tramp. Now, I shall buy a respectable suit.”
“I am glad you are able to do so; but even in your poor clothes I was glad to have met you.”
“Thank you, Rob. We have known each other but two days, but I shall always look upon you as a friend.”
The two boys shook hands cordially, and Grant set out in the direction of the Alameda Hotel. Before he arrived there, he saw Mr. Crosmont walking thoughtfully through Kearney Street, with his eyes fixed upon the ground.
“Mr. Crosmont!” he exclaimed eagerly.
Giles Crosmont looked up quickly, and his face brightened as he recognized Grant.
“Grant Colburn!” he cried joyfully, seizing the boy by the hand. “I am, indeed, glad to see you. When did you arrive?”