Page 123 - In A New World

CHAPTER XXII.

STRIKING LUCK.

"Now, boys," said Obed, "we have some hard work before us. Mining isn't
like standing behind a counter, or measuring off calico. It takes

considerable more muscle."

"I am used to hard work," said Jack, "but you'll have to show me how."

"I'll keep up with Jack," said Harry manfully. "You won't have to charge

either of us with laziness."

"I believe you, boys. There isn't a lazy bone in either of you. As I have
experience, I'll boss the job, and all you'll have to do will be to obey
orders."

"All right, captain!" said Jack, touching his cap, with a smile.

This, then, was the understanding between the three, and it was faithfully
adhered to. The two boys, sensible of their ignorance, were very ready to

obey Obed, and he found them willing workers. They installed themselves
in a cabin which had been occupied by the man they bought out. He gave

them the use of it, having no further occasion for it himself, and they began
to keep house as one family. They lived roughly enough, and yet, so high
were all articles of food, on account of the trouble and expense of

transportation from Melbourne, that it cost them as much as would have
paid for living at a respectable hotel in the States.

All three entered upon their labors with high hopes. The first day and the
second day yielded no results, but, as Obed reminded them, a miner needs

to be patient. But when one week--two weeks--passed, and the amount of
gold found amounted to less than ten dollars, all three began to look sober.

"This is beginning to look serious, boys," said Obed thoughtfully, as they
set about their work on the first day of the third week. "Our claim aint