EFFECT [244] on the people of a mining camp of one of those fabulously rich “strikes” like Gray Recks mine proved to be, may be imagined but cannot be described in words. Shopkeeper, citizen and miner alike, go wild with enthusiasm over so important a discovery. Congratulations were showered upon Colonel Bonifield and Vance from every quarter. Every one in Gold Bluff felt it his privilege to call at Colonel Bonifield’s home and pay his respects to one who had lived so long in their midst, and who had so persistently and so patiently maintained unbounded confidence in a proposition that was looked upon by others as a money-losing venture. Independent of the fortune left him by his father, Vance was now a millionaire. In his prosperity he did not forget his old friends. He called on the sheriff and again offered himself as bondsman for Steve Gibbons. The bond was accepted, and a half hour later, Gibbons was released. Hank Casey surrendered himself, and was also immediately bailed out of custody. One evening the stage coach brought to Gold Bluff Homer Winthrop and his young bride, nee Virgie Bonifield. It was a great surprise to the Bonifield household. [245] “And this accounts,” said Vance to Homer, after he had congratulated him, “this accounts for Marcus Donald hastening away from Gold Bluff.” “Yes,” said Homer, “I could not think of having the ceremony take place without my old friend and associate, Marcus Donald, being present. We have traveled together so long, in adversity as well as in prosperity, that we are quite inseparable.” “He is a great character,” replied Vance, “his disinterested assistance and help I have recently seen demonstrated in a marked degree.” “He is one of the ‘salt of the earth,’.rdquo; replied Winthrop, enthusiastically, “he is not only a sunny day friend, but one in the hour of need—indeed, he is a man among men. By the way,” he continued, “I want to congratulate you with all my heart on the great Gray Rocks strike.” “Thank you,” replied Vance, “the prosperity could never have come at a more opportune time. My finances was reduced to the last dollar when Colonel Bonifield broke the news to me.” “I received your letter, written some ten days ago,” said Winthrop, “and have sold those twenty-five lots your New York friends purchased.” “Thank God for that!” ejaculated Vance. “Yes, I sold them for $800 apiece, or $20,000. As they only paid $2,500 for them, I hardly think they can complain at the profits. Oh, you have no idea what a city Waterville has become. The great waterpower has been effectually harnessed, the streets are paved; electric car lines, planing mills, and scores of other manufacturing concerns are in full operation. Our population is now [246] numbered by thousands, instead of hundreds, while busy activity and prosperity are apparent on every hand.”