"This claim is already applied for," said the official.
"But, mister, there vos not a stake on it ven I staked it."
"I don't care! It is applied for. Next!"
"Can't I see the Commissioner?"
"No; he's busy. Next!"
"Say! mister, this is my claim."
"Next!"
Poor Ole was shoved aside by the crowd. He had waited through the weary night to gain a hearing, and now ethereal castles came toppling down!
As soon as John had obtained a copy of the regulations he and George Bruce set off to the hill of promise, each to take up a quartz claim.
They staked their claims, and then followed the ridge down to Bonanza Creek. They found that the rounded end of the ridge overlooking the creek was admirably suited as the site of a quartz mill.