The subtle tact of Union Mills, however, in expressing an awakened respect for their fortunate partner by addressing him, as if unconsciously, as "Mr.Ford" was at first discomposing, but even this was forgotten in their breathless excitement as they neared the base of the mountain.

When they had crossed the creek the Right Bower stopped reflectively.
"You say you heard the slide come down before you left the cabin ?" he said, turning to the Old Man.
"Yes; but I did not know then what it was.

It was about an hour and a half after you left," was the reply.
"Then look here, boys," continued the Right Bower with superstitious exultation; "it was the SLIDE that tumbled into the creek, overflowed it, and helped US clear out the race!" It seemed so clear that Providence had taken the partners of the Lone Star directly in hand that they faced the toilsome ascent of the mountain with the assurance of conquerors.

They paused only on the summit to allow the Old Man to lead the way to the slope that held their treasure.

He advanced cautiously to the edge of the crumbling cliff, stopped, looked bewildered, advanced again, and then remained white and immovable.