No clew to the dead man's identity; no evidence sufficiently strong to prove murder or suicide; no trace of any kind, inculpating any party, known or unknown, were found.

But much publicity and interest were given to the proceedings by the presence of the principal witness, a handsome girl.
"To the pluck, persistency, and intellect of Miss Porter," said the "Red Chief Recorder," "Tuolumne County owes the recovery of the body." No one who was present at the inquest failed to be charmed with the appearance and conduct of this beautiful young lady.
"Miss Porter has but lately arrived in this district, in which, it is hoped, she will become an honored resident, and continue to set an example to all lackadaisical and sentimental members of the so-called 'sterner sex.'" After this universally recognized allusion to Cass Beard, the "Recorder" returned to its record: "Some interest was excited by what appeared to be a clew to the mystery in the discovery of a small gold engagement ring on the body.

Evidence was afterward offered to show it was the property of a Mr.Cass Beard of Blazing Star, who appeared upon the scene _after_ the discovery of the corpse by Miss Porter.

He alleged he had dropped it in lifting the unfortunate remains of the deceased.

Much amusement was created in court by the sentimental confusion of the claimant, and a certain partisan spirit shown by his fellow-miners of Blazing Star.