Harry thereupon began to relate his story, and, assured by the stranger’s manner that he was interested, kept on to the end.
“You’ve had bad luck, boy,” he said, at the end; “but maybe it’ll turn out for the best. Perhaps you have been sent to this out-of-the-way part of the world on purpose to make your fortune. Who knows?”
“I wish it might turn out so.”
“I’ll tell you what I’ll do,” said the stranger. “I didn’t mean to go back to the mines. Seven thousand dollars was enough for me; but I’ve a great mind to go back with you.”
“I wish you would,” said Harry. “I’d like to go with somebody that knows the mines, and can help me with his advice.”
“I will go then,” said the other, emphatically. “Now tell me when you want to go.”
“Next Monday.”
“That will suit me as well as any time. I’m beginning to get tired of the city. There is nothing to do here. There’s something in the wild, free life of the mines that I like. It’s agreed then; we’ll go together.”
“Yes,” said Harry, “and I am very glad that I have secured company.”