"We've got it!"
"This beats me dead," said Creedon.
Both men were greatly excited, for it did appear that they had made a great find of hidden treasure.
Meantime, Desmond managed to force himself up and disappeared in the cave. He glanced around and beheld a sight that filled him with varying emotions.
The chamber was not more than four feet square, but on the floor in one corner was a shining heap. It shone under the ray of his lantern as he flashed the light upon it. He took a handful of the shining stuff and passed it down to Creedon, handing him the lantern at the same time, and he said:
"You are a good judge; tell me what that is?"
"It's gold dust," cried Creedon; "how much is there of it?"
"Oh, barrels full, I should say."
"Great ginger! lad, you've struck it."
"Well, it won't run away, I reckon, but give me your hat and I'll fill it."