"Five dollars; don't see much use in leaving money lying round." He hesitated, and then putting the bill in his pocket, remarked: "Anyhow, he gave me the wad.

Let's see if I can find another." Thirlwell laughed and told him to rest for a few minutes, because he wanted to think.

Stormont had obviously returned to what he imagined was a good center to work from in his search for the vein, and had seen the smoke of Thirlwell's fire.

He could now follow back the latter's trail and then make for the Record Office after altering the stakes.

If he did so, the probability was that he would arrive too late, but accidents often happen in the bush and Thirlwell meant to leave nothing to luck.
Moreover, Stormont had given him a hint when he tried to bribe Drummond to damage the canoes.