But the people sincerely believe that he does, and that he possesses the secret of where his treasure is buried.

The belief is just as good as the reality, and may be made equally profitable." "Exactly," interposed Mr.Topman, "exactly! Just what I was going to suggest." Here Mr.Topman put his thumbs in the arms of his waistcoat, and drummed on the front with his fingers.

"If these honest people believe Mr.Toodleburg knows where the money is buried, why, sir, there's your solid basis for a grand joint stock company, dividends twenty per cent., payable quarterly.

That's what takes.

God bless me, Mr.Toodleburg, here's a fortune in your fingers.