There was a possibility that in the intervening years some other parties had visited the spot and carried off the gold. But this was only a faint chance.
However, one fact was patent.
The gold was gone.
What had become of it? Certainly it could not have taken wings and flown away of itself. The two gold seekers were completely mystified, and knew not what to do.
CHAPTER X.
A COMPROMISE.
However, time was valuable.
Dooley and his men were momentarily nearing the spot. A conflict with them must be avoided.
But Frank first suggested that a thorough search of the vicinity be made.
This was done.
Every suspicious looking sand heap, far and near, was thrown over. No gold was found.