Mick had told them that if they found a speck at the end of three weeks they would be very fortunate.

They had their windlass, and they worked in relays; one man at the bottom, one man at the wheel, and one man idle.
In this way they kept up their work during eighteen hours of the day.
Each man in this way worked twelve hours, and had twelve for sleeping, and cooking, and eating.

Other occupation they had none.

During the fortnight neither of them went any further distance from their claim than to the neighbouring shop.

Mick often expressed his admiration at their continued industry, not understanding the spirit which will induce such young men as them to work, even when the work is agonising.