CHAPTER XXXII
IMPRISONED
Gerald lost no time in writing a letter to Thomas Nixon, to let him know of his arrival in Ransom and his adventures up to date. He finished by advising Mr. Nixon not to sell his share in the mine for less than forty thousand dollars.
"Indeed," he added, "I think I can find you a purchaser at that price."
He did not make himself known to Nelson Hawk, but remained at the hotel waiting for further developments.
He did not observe that one of the miners who hung about the hotel surveyed him curiously, nor had he any idea that he was recognized. But this miner—Jack Manton—remembered to have seen him at Campville, and knew his connection with old Tom Nixon, whose interest in the mine was well known. Desiring to ingratiate himself with the superintendent, he joined him in the street as he was leaving the mine, and said, touching his hat:
"Mr. Hawk, may I have a few words with you?"
"Go on," said Hawk, impatiently, "but my time is valuable."
"It will be worth your while to hear me. Have you seen a boy about the hotel?"
"Yes; what of it?"