Gold is heavy, and settles.

Perhaps it's deeper down in the river bed." Mukoki came across to join them.

Out among the rocks he had found a fleck of gold no larger than the head of a pin, and this new sign gave them all fresh enthusiasm.

Taking off their boots both Rod and Wabi joined the old pathfinder in midstream.

But each succeeding pan added to the depressing conviction that was slowly replacing their hopes.
The shadows in the chasm began growing longer and deeper.