"And with high honors, of course," said her companion in the same vein.

"Certainly; with all the honors, since there was no one to compete with
me or to bear away the palm from me. But, Mr. Heath, you must be both
weary and hungry after your ride over the mountains; come in, and let me
get you a lunch," Virgie concluded, on hospitable thoughts intent.

"No, indeed, thank you; I will eat nothing until tea time, when, if you
will permit me, I will gladly join you. I should much prefer to sit here
and enjoy this magnificent view with you to going indoors."

He seated himself, as he spoke, upon the rustic seat, and Virgie,
following his example, they fell into a pleasant chat, which lasted more
than an hour.

Virgie never forgot that delicious hour, neither did her companion, who
was every moment growing more deeply interested in the beautiful mountain
maiden.

He talked upon many themes, and was surprised to find how fluently she
could converse with him, showing how much and how thoroughly she had read,
and how wisely and carefully her father had superintended her education.
She was far above the average woman in point of intellect and culture, he
told himself and it was a pity that her life should be wasted in that
wretched place.

But they were at length interrupted by Chi Lu, who came to tell them that
Mr. Abbot was awake, and had asked for them.

They immediately arose to go to him, and found him sitting upon the tiny
porch in front of the cottage.

He was looking thinner and more worn, Mr. Heath thought, than when he had
last seen him, and his cough was far from troublesome, even though the
weather was milder. It was evident, to him, at least, that the man was in
the last stages of consumption, and could not live many months, if weeks,
although, as the weather grew warmer, he might rally somewhat.

He greeted the young man warmly, and made many inquiries regarding his
trip and the success which he and his party had met with in their sport.

"Very good," Mr. Heath told him, adding, "And now my friends have gone to
Salt Lake City, while I have retraced my steps hither to talk with you
about that claim of yours."

Virgie looked up quickly at this, a lovely flush rising to her cheek. If
only he would become its purchaser.

The eyes of the two young people met, and held each other in a glance that
sent the blood coursing more rapidly than usual through their veins.

Mr. Abbot's face, brightened.

"Then you