inion, for from the day that
the doctor fixed the time for the Old Prospector's departure the fever
abated, his philosophic calm returned, he became daily stronger and
daily more cheerful and courageous, and though he was troubled still
with a cough he departed one bright day, with Perault, in high spirits.

"I shall remember you all," he cried, waving his hand gaily in
farewell. "Doctor, I shall build you a hospital where your skill will
have opportunity and scope. Mr. Macgregor, your heart will be delighted
with that church-manse-school building of yours." This was Shock's pet
scheme for the present. "To all of you suitable rewards. This time I
see success. Farewell."

After he had turned away he reined back his pony and addressed Shock
again.

"Mr. Macgregor," he said, with almost solemn earnestness, "I give my
daughter into your charge. I am sure you will watch over her. She will
be comfortable with Josie, and she will be safe under your care."

His spirit of enthusiastic confidence caught all the crowd standing by,
so that they gave him a hearty cheer in farewell.

"Did not say what he would give us, eh, Carroll?" said Crawley, who
with Carroll stood at the back of the crowd.

"Blanked old fool!" growled Carroll.

"And yet he has a marvellous instinct for mines," said Crawley, "and
this time he has got something more than usual in his head, I believe.
He has been particularly secretive. I could not get anything out of
him. Guess he means to euchre us out of our share of anything big,
partner."

"Curse him for an owld thief!" said Carroll. "I'll have it out av his
hide, so I will, if he tries that."

"Then, Carroll, you'll have to do it when his big friend is not round."

Carroll's answer was a perfect flood of profanity, copious enough to
include not only the Old Prospector, Shock, all the relatives living
and dead, but Crawley, who stood listening with a sarcastic grin on his
evil face.

"Well, well," at last said Crawley soothingly, "your time will come.
And, partner, you may depend on me when it comes. I owe him something,
too, and I would rather pay it than get a mine."

The days that followed the Old Prospector's departure were lonely
enough for his daughter. Her father's illness had brought to them both
the inestimable boon of mutual acquaintance and affection. It was the
girl's first experience of having near her one to whom she could freely
give the long-hoarded treasures of her love; and now