"To be sure we'll get through," returned Mark. "But the next time you shake hands please don't squeeze my fingers quite so hard." He had found the country boy's grip a tough one. "Si can do the real hard work," came from one of the little Williams boys. "He can split wood, an'--an' everything!" "Yes, I'll split the wood, and do a lot besides--if only I go," said Si, and then in sheer delight he swung his little brother on high. "And just wait till I get back, Benny," he went on. "You shall have a lot of toys, and mother a silk dress, and Bess those music lessons, and father----" "Oh, I'll sit all day long and figure up what the nuggets are worth," finished Mr. Williams, with a laugh. "Well, boys, now it's settled, I wish all of you luck, and there's my hand on it." And he shook hands all around. CHAPTER VIII OFF FOR THE LAND OF GOLD It was astonishing how quickly the three boys got to liking one another. Inside of two days Bob and Mark felt as if they had known Si for a long time. Si was a real worker, they could easily see that, and given to look at the hard, practical side of things. He went over their list with care, and so did Mr. and Mrs. Williams, and some things were added and others dropped out. The shotgun was cleaned up, and they went to the store for the rifle, and for the balance of the provisions and the ammunition. They likewise purchased a small box filled with necessary medicines. It was decided that the start should be made on the following Monday morning, and the three boys spent all of Saturday in completing their arrangements. Bob and Mark had purchased some extra underwear, and Mrs. Williams mended the garments belonging to her son. Sunday was a day of complete rest. The route to be taken for the first stage of the journey was from Independence to Fort Leavenworth, and then along the Platte River westward to Fort Laramie. When the latter place was gained they were to decide how to proceed further. "You must take good care of yourselves," said Mr. Williams, when it came time to leave. "Don't run into unnecessary danger." "We will be careful," answered Mark. "Si, I'd rather have you come home without gold than be killed," put in Mrs. Williams, looking with motherly fondness at her son. The children gathered around and tears stood in Bess's eyes, for she thought a great deal of her brother. Then the mule was started up and off they went, with Bob on the seat of the wagon, and Mark trudging on foot on one side and Si on the other. The three young adventurers were off for the gold fields at last!