But did your father often talk about the lode ?" "No; not unless it was to me." "But why did he tell you and not your brother ?" "George was very practical; I was romantic and my father something of a dreamer.

We lived happily at home, but I felt that he needed sympathy that he did not get.

I think now my mother knew he longed for the North, and was afraid the longing might grow too strong and draw him back.

When he did speak of the silver she smiled.

I suppose when you have known the wilderness its charm is strong ?" She stopped and her face was gravely thoughtful as she looked across the shining water towards the faint blur of a pine forest on a distant point, and Thirlwell felt as if they had been suddenly united by a bond of understanding.
"Yes," he said.