"Honestly, Somers, I went to my uncle and asked him a few questions, and he flew into a terrible rage. 'Do you think I'm in the business of blowing up boats?' he said. 'Of course not! I had nothing to do with it.'"
"I suppose it was the same men who stole the boat?"
"You're right! Say, Somers, I'm awfully sorry, and hope you don't bear any ill will toward me."
Bob held out his hand.
"Of course I don't," he said, heartily.
And the rival leaders shook hands.
In Tocono lived Mr. Horatio Strang, a well-known copper mining expert.
Mr. Somers visited him and finally induced him to accompany the party to their destination. Thus it happened that two gentlemen and five boys started off, early one morning, on a Clair Bay steamer.
The boys carried pickaxes and all other implements necessary for their work.
Mr. Somers' tract of land proved to be densely wooded in places, with other portions barren and rocky.