He held a match for his visitor and observed, with satisfaction, that Pete’s hand shook.  Plainly here was a simple-minded person who would be as wax in his skillful hands.

Mitchell smoked for a little while in thoughtful silence.  Then, with his best straightforward look, he turned and faced Pete across the table.

“I will be plain with you, Mr. Johnson.  This is a most unusual adventure for me.  I am a man who rather prides himself that he makes no investments that are not conservative.  But Stan is my cousin, and he has always been the soul of honor.  His word is good with me.  I may even make bold to say that you, yourself, have impressed me favorably.  In short, you may consider me committed to a thorough investigation of your claim.  After that, we shall see.”

“You’ll never regret it,” said Pete.  “Shake!”

“I suppose you are not commissioned to make any definite proposal as to terms, in case the investigation terminates as favorably as you anticipate?  At any rate, this is an early day to speak of final adjustments.”

“No,” said Pete, “I ain’t.  You’ll have to settle that with Stan.  Probably you’ll want to sign contracts and things.  I don’t know nothin’ about law.  But there’s plenty for all.  I’m sure of one thing—­you’ll be glad to throw in with us on ’most any terms once you see that copper, and have a lot of assays made and get your expert’s report on it.”

“I hope so, I am sure.  Stanley seems very confident.  But I fear I shall have to disappoint you in one particular:  I can hardly leave my business here at loose ends and go back with you at once, as, I gather, is your desire.”

Pete’s face fell.

“How long will it take you?”

“Let me consider.  I shall have to arrange for other lawyers to appear for me in cases now pending, which will imply lengthy consultations and crowded days.  It will be very inconvenient and may not have the happiest results.  But I will do the best I can to meet your wishes, and will stretch a point in your favor, hoping it may be remembered when we come to discuss final terms with each other.  Shall we say a week?” He tapped his knuckles with the folded letter and added carelessly:  “And, of course, I shall have to pack, and all that.  You must advise me as to suitable clothing for roughing it.  How far is your mine from the railroad?”

“Oh, not far.  About forty mile.  Yes, I guess I can wait a week.  I stand the hotel grub pretty well.”

“Where are you staying, Mr. Johnson?”

“The Algonquin.  Pretty nifty.”

“Good house.  And how many days is it by rail to—­Bless my soul, Mr. Johnson—­here am I, upsetting my staid life, deserting my business on what may very well prove, after all, but a wild-goose chase!  And I do not know to what place in Arizona we are bound, even as a starting-point and base of supplies, much less where your mine is!  And I don’t suppose there’s a map of Arizona in town.”