Section 3, Pages 96 - 151 Summary

Diamond fever grips one and all at Colesberg when for three days in a row the finds are plentiful. The digging is furious, each seeking the spot that will make them wealthy. Even the sudden deluge of rain does not discourage them, despite the new dangers. Already claims being dug at different rates of speed leave treacherous, deep holes scattered throughout the hillside. Now, rivers of water create fissures that make the entire mass unstable. In a frenzy men are lined up, trying to push their carts through the slurry of hillside debris. When the one in front tips, an argument ensues between Ralph and the owner, and Zouga tries to yell, fearful, knowing suddenly that it is all giving way. Finally Ralph hears him and begins to run. He saves not only himself but the man he argued...