"Well, on such conditions I forgive the little trick you have played upon me; and now I will explain more fully the idea that I entertain regarding my money-making scheme. You must set Smith at work, in company with another driver or freighter, and let them bring such articles as will find a ready market. A stock must be laid in, sufficient to last nearly all winter, for during the wet season the roads are next to impassable, and provisions go up like a rocket, only they forget to fall until good weather begins, and freighting gets brisk."
"But what articles are best for the market of Ballarat?" I inquired, beginning to grow interested in the inspector's scheme, in spite of myself.
"Smith can tell you as well as I, but I may as well answer the question while my tongue is loose. Flour is our great staple here, and is selling at a large profit on Melbourne prices. Let Smith, or some one that he may select, watch the potato market closely, and often great bargains may be picked up. Ship bread is also paying a big profit, while pork and rice can be made to cover all expense of freighting other articles. Pickles and vinegar, and even preserved meats, sell well, and, in fact, more money is gained by selling luxuries than dispensing more substantial articles. A large stock of tea, coffee, and liquids of all kinds, will enable you to open the most extensive store in Ballarat"
"That is so," echoed Smith, approvingly.
We were about to make further inquiries, when, breathless with haste, a miner rushed into our tent.
"In the name of God, Mr. Inspector, come and help me!" he gasped.
"Why, what is the matter, Bill?" Mr. Brown asked, quite coolly.
"It is matter enough. Our mine has caved in, and both Sam and Jack are buried alive! Help me get them out and you shall have a share of the gold they have got on their persons."
"Did I not tell you, no longer ago than yesterday, that you was not shaping your shaft properly?" demanded the inspector, sharply.
"I know that you did, but we thought that we could save a few pounds, and run a little risk," replied the miner, in a humble tone.