ed it, and it had run down and then hardened in these strange
formations. Anyway there it was in vast quantities and in various
forms.

"`How did you find it?' asked my father of Apetak.

"His answer was: `I was hunting in this part of the country, and I
caught a fine silver fox by one hind leg in a trap. Just as I came up
he succeeded in cutting off his leg with his teeth and thus got away.
I, of course, ran after him, when he suddenly disappeared in the mouth
of this cave. As his skin was so valuable I hurried and got some birch-
bark and balsam gum, and made a large torch, and tracked him by the
blood from his leg into this place. My torch went out before I caught
him, and I was very much frightened for fear I would here die; but I
managed to find the opening, and got out. Then I made plenty of torches
and came in again. I had to search quite a while before I found my fox
and succeeded in killing him. Then I looked around to see what kind of
a place it was into which the fox had led me. For the first time I now
saw all this metal. I first thought it was lead and would supply me
with bullets. I tried to cut it with my knife and could not succeed.
Then I saw that it was good metal which you call silver, and I knew you
would be pleased to see it. So that is the reason that I have brought
you here.'

"Soon after my father was again blindfolded and brought safely back to
his home. He was very much pleased with his wonderful adventure, and
honourably carried out his part of the agreement. He never in after
years attempted to find the cave, nor did he even speak about it for
many years. But it is there, nevertheless, and some day the world will
be startled by the story of its discovery, and of the richness of its
hidden stores."

With intense interest the boys, as well as the others present, listened
to this wonderful story. When it was concluded very many were their
questions and comments.

Then Sam, springing up on a chair, said:

"I move a hearty vote of thanks to Mr Ross for this splendid story
about the cave, and when it is discovered may I be on hand!"

Alec seconded the motion and added:

"With great pleasure I second this motion, and may I be a good second,
close at hand when Sam rediscovers the cave!"

Frank put the motion, and it was carried unanimously.

Mr Ross gracefully responded, and as the fierce storms were still
raging without, and they listened to the howling of the winds, their