This proposal struck Ferguson favorably. They could not carry away their claims, and very possibly no other purchaser might offer, as, except as regards location, other places along the river-bank could be had without cost.
"What do you say, Tom?" asked Ferguson.
"I agree if you do, Mr. Ferguson."
"Then it's a bargain, Mr. Kent. I hope it'll prove satisfactory to both of us."
"I don't think you'll regret it. It's a good speculation."
When the two friends had settled for their purchase, Tom paying one hundred and Ferguson two hundred dollars, our hero found himself left with twenty dollars, or its equivalent in gold-dust, while his companion had about one hundred and fifty left over.
"We shall go off in style," said Tom; "riding in our own carriage. But there's one thing I have been thinking of. I want to send a hundred dollars home as soon as I get the chance. Suppose we can't sell the team?"
"Have no fears about that, Tom. I'll lend you the money if that is the case; but, mark my word, we shan't have it left on our hands, of that you may be sure."
The night before they were to start Lawrence Peabody dropped in. He was looking down in the mouth.
"How does the world use you, Mr. Peabody?" inquired Tom.