"I came on business, Sinclair," answered Tom, smiling.
"Thomas is going to California, Sinclair," explained Squire Hudson.
Sinclair opened wide his eyes in amazement. "What for?" he asked.
"To dig gold and make my fortune," answered Tom complacently.
"Come out and tell me all about it."
"You can go, Thomas," said Squire Hudson graciously. "Your father and I will settle the business."
"Is it true that you are going to California?" asked Sinclair, when they were out in the front yard.
"Yes."
"How soon do you go?"
"I want to get away in a week."