he discovered proofs that the old inhabitants
had utilised the rich metal contained in the hills by which they were
surrounded. The place had evidently been destroyed in some catastrophe,
in all probability by the attack of an enemy, for not a trace save
charred beams remained of the woodwork that must have been plentifully
used, and in many parts he found the scattered and gnawed bones of the
slain."

"I should like to explore that place, doctor and neighbours all," said
Griggs, "but I'm afraid that the nation of people who built that city
belonged to the imagination."

"That was my own idea," said the doctor gravely, "especially when the
poor fellow told me that he made his home there for years, taking
possession of a little temple-like place, covering the roof in with
cedar-boughs to keep off the sun, and living upon what he could secure
by means of his gun."

"And always getting a fresh supply of powder and shot from Noo York by
mail, eh, neighbours?"

"The narrative is most improbable," continued the doctor, "but it does
contain elements open to belief."

"But if he had discovered such treasure as that," said Wilton, "why
didn't he get back to civilisation, so as to profit by it?"

"To be sure," said Bourne. "But what about the Indians who ought to
have been there to watch over the gold?"

"He did not mention them," replied the doctor; "but his reason for not
returning was that the poor fellow felt that he dared not attempt to go
through the same horrors that he had encountered on his way out. He had
friends with him then, but now he was alone, weak, and wanting in
spirit. In fact, much as he longed to get back to civilisation, he
dared not attempt the journey, but kept on putting it off for years."

"For years, eh?" said Griggs derisively.

"Yes, for years, in the hope of some travellers or prospectors
accidentally discovering the place. At last, though, he seems to have
wakened up to the fact that if ever he was to see civilisation again it
must be by some effort of his own, and so he made the venture, to suffer
terribly, and finally crawl here to die, as we have seen."

"But he told his story," said Griggs, "and I don't know, doctor, but it
half seems to me as if you believe in the poor old lunatic."

"I told you in the beginning that I was somewhat disposed to credit his
history."

"Oh, come, Lee," cried Wilton.

"My dear Lee," cried Bourne. "Why, this legend of treasure cities and
golden