“No. The contract shows that I bought from William Thornton, known as Singlefoot Bill, the man who originally located and worked the claims.”
“Let me see. The date was——?”
“July 29th, 1867.”
“Quite sure that was the day on which you bought from this Singlefoot Bill?”
“Yes. The contract shows that.” Dodson spoke with contemptuous impatience.
“As I understand it, your title rests on the fact that you bought from William Thornton, known as Singlefoot Bill, on July 29th, 1867.”
“Yes, and on the fact that we have since continued to hold the property without selling it.”
“Bought from Singlefoot Bill himself, in person?”
“Yes. I’ve said so already twice.”
“You were there when he signed the contract, Mr. Dodson?”