Obed after careful inquiry judged that it was a bargain. He proposed to the two boys to join him in the purchase of the claim. They felt that they could safely follow his judgment, and struck a bargain. So before twenty-four hours had passed, the three friends were joint proprietors of a claim, and had about eight pounds apiece to meet expenses till it began to yield a return.
CHAPTER XXII. — STRIKING LUCK.
"Now, boys," said Obed, "we have some hard work before us. Mining isn't like standing behind a counter, or measuring off calico. It takes considerable more muscle."
"I am used to hard work," said Jack, "but you'll have to show me how."
"I'll keep up with Jack," said Harry manfully. "You won't have to charge either of us with laziness."
"I believe you, boys. There isn't a lazy bone in either of you. As I have experience, I'll boss the job, and all you'll have to do will be to obey orders."
"All right, captain!" said Jack, touching his cap, with a smile.
This, then, was the understanding between the three, and it was faithfully adhered to. The two boys, sensible of their ignorance, were very ready to obey Obed, and he found them willing workers. They installed themselves in a cabin which had been occupied by the man they bought out. He gave them the use of it, having no further occasion for it himself, and they began to keep house as one family. They lived roughly enough, and yet, so high were all articles of food, on account of the trouble and expense of transportation from Melbourne, that it cost them as much as would have paid for living at a respectable hotel in the States.