"Would Mr. Fox sell out for that sum, do you think?" asked Paul.
"It's likely he wouldn't. He's making too much money out of it. But, youngster, you seem particularly interested in the mine."
"I am," answered Paul, quietly.
He had rapidly decided that it would be for his interest to reveal to Jim Scott his real business at Custer City.
"Well, that's strange! What can it be to you?"
"Can I? I reckon!"
"Then I will tell you one. I am sent out here by Mr. Bradford, of Chicago, Simeon Fox's partner."
Scott whistled, and looked at Paul in evident amazement.
"He must have great confidence in you, youngster, to send out a boy of your age."