Col. Warner nodded his head vigorously, and watched George Melville to see the effect upon him of this extraordinary statement.
“Very natural, colonel,” said Melville. “I believe most people want to be richer. Perhaps if I had vigorous health I might have the same wish. At present my chief wish is to recover my health.”
“You'll do it, sir, you'll do it—and in short order, too! Then you can turn your attention to money-making.”
“Perhaps so,” said Melville, with a smile.
“If not for yourself, for your young friend here,” added the colonel. “I take it he is not rich.”
“I have my fortune still to make, Col. Warner,” said Herbert, smiling.
“The easiest thing in the world out here, my boy!” said the colonel, paternally. “So you start to-morrow?” he inquired, turning to Melville.
“I think of it.”
“Egad! I've a great mind to accompany you,” said the colonel. “Why shouldn't I? I've got through all my business in Chicago, and I like the pure air of the prairies best.”
“We shall be glad of your company, colonel,” said Melville, politely.