Bill Crane was cunning as well as malignant. He decided to quiet Tom's suspicions if he could, and ensure his continued silence, by an affectation of friendliness. He waited till he saw our hero washing dust beyond earshot of any listeners, and strolled up to him.
"How are you getting on, Tom?" he asked, with an appearance of friendliness.
Tom looked up quickly. Considering all that had happened, he was somewhat struck by Crane's effrontery.
"Fairly well," he answered coldly.
"Shan't I relieve you a few minutes?" proposed Crane.
"No, thank you."
"It's pretty hard work, and don't pay as well as it might. I think California's a humbug, for my part."
"Have you tried washing for gold?" asked Tom. "I haven't seen you at work."
"Not here. I've tried it elsewhere, but it's slow."
"Then, why do you stay here?" asked Tom, naturally.