“If the mine is a good one,” he said, “I will advance you the money necessary for the purchase of a half interest. If it pays you, you may become rich. Then you can repay the money.”
“But suppose it doesn't, Mr. Melville,” objected Herbert, “how can I ever repay you so large a sum?”
“On the whole, Herbert, I will take the risk.”
“You are very kind, Mr. Melville,” said Herbert, his face glowing with anticipation. To be half owner of a mine, with the chance of making a large sum of money, naturally elated him.
“Why shouldn't I be, Herbert? But I want to see the mine first.”
“Can't you go over this afternoon?” asked Holden, eager to settle the matter as soon as possible.
“It is a long journey,” said Melville, hesitating.
“You can stay overnight,” said Jack Holden, “and come back in the morning.”
“Very well; let us go then—that is, after dinner. Herbert, if you will set the table, we will see if we can't offer our friend here some refreshment. He is hungry, I am sure, after his long walk.”
“You've hit it, Mr. Melville,” said Holden. “I allow I'm as hungry as a wolf. But you don't set down to table, do you?”