The three miners had put up at an inferior inn in a narrow street running out of the principal avenue in Melbourne. Luckily they were at home when Harry called with Mr. Lindsay.
The latter found a certain reluctance on their part to give up the nugget.
“You see,” said one, “this young chap has promised us two hundred pounds between us. Maybe he will forget all about that, and leave us to shift for ourselves.”
“Do you think I would be so mean?” exclaimed Harry.
“The man is right,” said Mr. Lindsay. “He wants to have everything made sure.”
“But I can’t pay them till the gold is sold.”
“That’s true; nor would it be advisable, for you want their testimony before the bankers. But I think I see a way to arrange matters.”
“How is that?” asked Harry.
“I will advance one half the sum you promised at once, and guarantee the payment of the balance to-morrow afternoon, after they have rendered in their testimony at the banking-house.”
This suggestion was accepted by all parties as the best practical solution of the difficulty arising from the conflicting interests of the two parties, namely, the three miners on the one hand, and Harry on the other. It must not be supposed that they had seen anything in him to inspire distrust; but it is a good rule to keep friendship and business apart, and appearances are sometimes deceptive.