It takes boys and men like you for pioneers." Joe was gratified at his companion's approval.
"Now," said Folsom, "I may as well tell you my story.

I am the son of a New York merchant who is moderately rich.

I entered the counting-room at seventeen, and have remained there ever since, with the exception of four months spent in Europe." "If you are rich already, why do you go out to California ?" asked Joe.
"I am not going to the mines; I am going to prospect a little for the firm.

Some day San Francisco will be a large city.

I am going to see how soon it will pay for our house to establish a branch there." "I see," said Joe.
"I shall probably go out to the mines and take a general survey of the country; but, as you see, I do not go out to obtain employment." "It must be jolly not to have to work," said Joe, "but to have plenty of money to pay your expenses." "Well, I suppose it is convenient.