Page:Hugh Pendexter--The young timber-cruisers.djvu/376

 well as the others staring at him in open-mouthed amazement. “And I tell ye, and I believe it, that there are diamonds there. Now listen,” and he leaned forward to invite secrecy and mechanically the four gathered close, for his mention of precious stones held their attention. “I know there is gold there. I’ve seen it. Great big flakes and nuggets.” His voice now sank to a whisper, but as he caught the increased crackle of his signal pile he elevated his tones again, loudly crying, “And that gold is enough to make ye all rich.”

“What’s the matter with him? Is he crazy?” gasped Pete.

“No I’m not crazy. I’m talking of gold, car-loads of it. And hatfuls of diamonds,” shrieked Abner, seeking to destroy the warning noise of the second fire.

“Out up here,” gravely announced Nick, tapping his forehead.

“I’m not out up there,” denied Abner in a passionate voice. “I tell ye I know where Jim Nace makes counterfeit dollars. I know where he has a place not more’n ten miles from here where he keeps his silver and gold hid. And with it he makes his money. There! that’s news fer ye, eh?”

He was compelled to pause for want of breath,