“If we find that mine, you will have to hurtle to Big Draw to record our claims,” Weston reminded.  “One of the Indians can go with you to show the way.”

“I suppose the miners will make a wild stampede into this place as soon as they hear of the discovery.”

“Most likely.  But there have been so many ‘wild-cat’ claims recorded of late that they may merely consider this another, and pay little attention to it.  However, do not say much about it, and they may take no notice.  We can get our haul first, and then they may come as fast as they like.”

After they had crossed the wild meadow it was necessary to travel several hundred yards up the little stream at which Reynolds had slaked his thirst.  The meadow ere long ended, and the high, frowning sides of the two opposing hills shouldered toward each other, thus forming a deep draw about fifty yards in width.

“It was up there where the eagle fell,” Reynolds explained, as he stood looking up the ravine.  “Poor creature, it was hard when it was merely doing its duty.  But it saved my life, though, and perhaps that was something.”

“It is always the way,” Weston made answer.  “Little is accomplished in this world without sacrifice, and often the innocent are the sufferers.  And I reckon we shall not get that gold without sacrificing something.  I see that Natsu is not altogether pleased at the prospect of climbing this hill.  But it cannot be helped, so we might as well begin at once.”

It took them some time to ascend, and often they were forced to draw themselves up by means of rocks and small trees.  Occasionally they rested, for combined with the steep climb the sun was pouring its fiery beams full upon their heads.

“I do not believe the miners will find this place in a hurry,” Reynolds panted, as he sat upon a ledge of rock where he had with difficulty dragged himself.  “When I first climbed up here I worked my way along the side of the hill, which was somewhat easier.  Short cuts don’t always pay.”

“That must have been the reason why you didn’t take one to Glen West,” Weston replied, as he, too, rested upon the rock.

“It’s a definite proof, sir, of what I just said, that short cuts don’t always pay.  I was cursing myself for getting lost in the wilderness, when all the time it was the only way whereby I could reach Glen West in safety.  Had I gone any other route, by a short cut, for instance, you would have pitched me at once beyond the Golden Crest.”

Weston made no reply, and once more they continued their climb.  Up and up they slowly made their tortuous way, and at length Reynolds, who was leading, gave a shout as his eyes fell upon the desired cave.  With a bound he sprang forward, reached the place and was standing before the opening when his companions arrived.

“There it is!” he cried, stooping and pointing into the cave.  “And, look, there are the remains of my fire which the rain nearly put out.”