Two rude huts near-by evidently served as their temporary homes.
"Well, boys, how do you find it ?" inquired Bickford, riding up.
"Pretty fair," said one of the party.
"Have you got room for three more ?" "Yes--come along.

You can select claims alongside and go to work if you want to." "What do you say, Joe ?" "I am in favor of it." "We are going to put up here, Hogan," said Mr.Bickford.

"You can do as you've a mind to.

Much as we value your interestin' society, we hope you won't put yourself out to stay on our account." "I'll stay," said Hogan.
Joe and Joshua surveyed the ground and staked out their claims, writing out the usual notice and posting it on a neighboring tree.
They had not all the requisite tools, but these they were able to purchase at one of the cabins.
"What shall I do ?" asked Hogan.

"I'm dead broke.