Page 170 - In A New World

"I have no money to give you," replied Colson, "but I have information that
will enable you to obtain a great deal."

"What is your object in telling me this?" demanded Fletcher, still

suspiciously.

"The fact is, my friend and I want to join with you in the enterprise, and get

a fair share of the booty."

"Do you wish to join our band, then?"

"Well, not permanently, but for a little while."

"Out with the information, then!"

"Will you agree to our terms?"

"What are they?"

"We want half of the prize."

"You are very modest," said Fletcher in a sarcastic tone. "How much will it

amount to?"

"Not far from a hundred thousand dollars."

Fletcher pricked up his ears. This was indeed a prize worth trying for.

"Give particulars," he said.

"A big nugget is on the way to Melbourne, or will be in a day or two. It was
found at Bendigo. I don't know how much it will net, but probably

seventy-five thousand dollars. Then there is a considerable amount of dust
besides."

"Who is to carry it? Is it in the hands of a private party?"