"Indeed," he added, "I think I can find you a purchaser at that price."

 

He did not make himself known to Nelson Hawk², but remained at the hotel waiting for further developments.

 

He did not observe that one of the miners who hung about the hotel surveyed him curiously³, nor had he any idea that he was recognized. But this miner—Jack Manton—remembered to have seen him at Campville, and knew his connection with old Tom Nixon, whose interest in the mine was well known. Desiring to ingratiate himself with the superintendent⁴, he joined him in the street as he was leaving the mine, and said, touching⁵ his hat:

 

"Mr. Hawk, may I have a few words with you?"

 

"Go on," said Hawk, impatiently, "but my time is valuable."

 

"It will be worth your while to hear me. Have you seen a boy about the hotel?"

 

"Yes; what of it?"

 

"Do you know who he is?"

 

"No. Is he a person of any importance?"

 

"I should say so. He is secretary and companion—whatever you may choose to call it—to old Tom Nixon."

 

Nelson Hawk uttered an exclamation⁶ of dismay.

 

"Are you sure of that?" he asked hurriedly.

 

"Certainly I am."

 

"How do you know?"

 

"I saw him at Campville three weeks ago and I know he lives with old Tom."

 

Straightway it flashed upon the superintendent's mind that he had discussed the condition of the mine with Matthew Grote in hearing of this boy. He must, he felt convinced, have spoken of its large output, having no idea that this youth was an agent of his partner. If this were the case all his plans were upset. Gerald would of course communicate what he had heard to the old man.

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