He probably guesses the way my thoughts travel, for he stands up and solemnly asserts that he has a distinctly justifiable intention in this matter; namely, to uncover, to search, to verify a theory or displace it, and to cover up again.

He means to take away nothing--not a grain of sand.

In this he says he sees no such monstrous sin.

I inquire if this is really a promise to me?
He repeats that it is a promise, and resumes digging.

My contribution to the labour is that of directing the light constantly upon the hole.