an investment as any are in
these days. Of course, nothing is a sure thing in this world, but I
believe this Hop Toad Mine has one of the richest veins of ore of any
mine in that vicinity."

"Then I'm going to invest some of my money in a gold mine," decided
Dick. "Where can I find Mr. Vanderhoof?"

"He'll be at the bank to-morrow and you can see him there. Remember, you
are doing this on your own responsibility, and if it turns out a failure
you've got to chalk it up against yourself."

"All right, dad."

"It will be an experience for the boy, anyhow," murmured the
millionaire, as his son left the room. "He's got to learn, the same as I
did. I think between his mother's will, his Uncle Ezra, and what I can
show him, we'll make a fine man of him in spite of his wealth, which is
a mighty handicap--a mighty handicap," and shaking his head doubtfully
Mr. Hamilton proceeded to look over some business papers, which task he
was at when Dick went to bed.

Dick received a letter the next morning which rather disquieted him. It
was from the firm of whom he had purchased his milk stock, and informed
him that owing to certain contingencies in the market they were obliged
to ask for an assessment on his stock.

"What's an assessment on stock, dad?" he asked of his father, when he
had called at the bank and shown the letter to Mr. Hamilton.

"It means that the company needs more money to run the business, and
that you, being part of the company, have to put up your share. Let's
see, they want a hundred dollars from you. Well, I guess you'll have to
pay it."

"But that's a queer way to do business," grumbled Dick. "I thought I was
going to make money, and, instead, I have to pay out more."

"Oh, well, new concerns frequently have to call for an assessment,
instead of paying dividends," consoled his father. "The stock may pay
well yet. Milk is something every family has to have, you know, and they
have to have it every day. The company may be all right when it gets
well started. I wouldn't worry now. I've had to pay assessments on many
a stock that afterward turned out well."

"I'm glad I thought of that gold mine stock," said Dick. "I guess that
will be the best thing yet. When will Mr. Vanderhoof be here?"

"Almost any minute now. Ah, there he comes," and, as Mr. Hamilton spoke,
the man with the very black moustache came down the corridor that led
to the private office and walked through the open doorway.

"Ah, two ca