“November 12, 1912.—Why is it that my chest from Honan continues to fascinate me? Sitting here at home this evening, my thoughts dwelt upon it. Twice I opened it and removed the trays, one by one, with the rapt interest of a child; removed them and placed them on the floor beside me. How indescribably bare it looks. I’m sure it wasn’t like that during the Ming dynasty.
“November 17, 1912.—Today I finished reading Marco Polo’s wonderful narrative. Very naturally, it turned my thoughts to the chest. I’m obsessed with a whimsical fancy. My chest, I am quite sure, was at one time the depository for the jewels and wealth of the great Ming himself. I visualize all those mysterious compartments overflowing with the treasure from seven seas. This one contained diamonds; this one rubies; this one sapphires and emeralds. In the remaining trays there are quantities of silver and gold. Just to heighten the illusion, I have placed the contents of three pokes in one of the trays. Then I locked it up. I, too, shall have my treasure.”
Corporal Rand ceased reading. Dick and Sandy laughed.
“Queer old duck, wasn’t he?” Dick commented. “Well, I don’t know as I blame him any. It is mysterious.”
Corporal Rand did not reply. He turned a few pages idly, then read again:
“June 2, 1913.—I have found the Crystal Lode. Could scarcely believe my good fortune. Came upon it more by accident than design. Tremendously rich. Here and there, I found evidences of the workings of old Dave Crystal. Will be compelled to keep this a secret. Took out over a thousand dollars yesterday.”
“Whew!” gasped Sandy.
Rand was excited too. He turned the pages more quickly.
“October 1, 1914.—I’m back at the Crossing earlier than usual this year. Brought a good deal of gold with me. Raced it in the chest. It will soon be filled to overflowing. The depository of the great Ming has come into its own.
“November 10, 1914.—Lipton would smile if he knew what I was up to. Today—the third since my arrival in Edmonton—I converted nearly eight thousand dollars worth of gold from the Crystal Lode into precious stones. The jewelers here must think I am mad. Almost overnight, I have changed my vocation. In place of being a collector of rare old books and antiques, I have become a connoisseur of gems.