“You have been over the mine, of course, yourself, Mr. Rycroft?”
“Yes; I only returned to Brisbane a week ago.”
“And what is your personal opinion?”
“There is, beyond doubt, alluvial gold. It is a bit refractory, but the washings panned out from five to six ounces to the ton.”
“So I was told in England; but, about the vein underneath? Alluvial is not dependable as a continuance. It is the vein we want to strike. Have you bored?”
“Yes, one shaft.”
“Any result?”
“That is what your opinion is needed to decide,” said his companion. As Rycroft spoke, the corners of his mouth hardened, and he looked fixedly at Ogilvie. He knew perfectly well why Ogilvie had come from England to assay the mine, and this last question took him somewhat by surprise.
Ogilvie was silent. After a moment he jumped up impatiently.