The search for the lost treasure might be a matter of weeks, possibly of months.

But he was very well resolved not to give it up until the search had been pursued with unabated zeal to the last extremity, and he himself was fully satisfied as to its fate.

Nothing but actual knowledge that it had been dissipated and dispersed should induce him to abandon the quest.
Standing at the mouth of the cave, leaning against the rocky wall, and enjoying the deep solitude of the forest and its tranquil stillness, Cuthbert revolved many matters in his mind, and it seemed more certain than ever that the finding of the treasure alone could save him and many that he loved from manifold difficulties and perplexities.

How that treasure would smooth the path and bring happiness and ease to the Trevlyn family! Surely it was well worth a more vigorous search than had long been made! Cuthbert took from his pocket the bit of parchment containing the mystic words of the wise woman, or her familiar spirit, and perused them again and again, albeit he knew them well nigh by heart.
"Thou art here! It is well." Cuthbert started at the sound of the rich, deep tones, and found himself confronted by the queenly-looking gipsy.

He had not heard her approach.