"When you go I hope you will let me come," he said. "We have the tools
and outfit one needs for prospecting at the mine, and I could get the
packers and canoes."

"But you don't believe I shall find the lode. Why do you want to come?"

"I know the bush," Thirlwell answered with a smile. "So far I've been
prudent and stuck to my job, but I've felt the pull of the lone trail
like other men. In fact, I'd rather like to do something rash, for a
change."

"Have you never done anything rash?"

"Only once, I think. It needed all my pluck; but the curious thing is
that it's now turning out better than I hoped."

Agatha pondered and then looked up. "It would be an advantage to have
somebody I could trust to look after the packers and canoes; but the
journey must be made at my cost. I couldn't let another undertake my
duty."

"Then I may come? It's a promise?"

"Yes," said Agatha quietly; "when I am ready I will let you know. Now,
however, we must get back to the hotel."

Thirlwell dipped the paddle, the canoe lurched, and her bow rose at his
next vigorous stroke. The ripples she threw off widened into a
fan-shaped wake that trailed away and was lost in a glitter of