one of the richest gold and silver properties in the world."

"Pouf! The ore usually runs much better--is worth much more
than that which you saw to-day," protested Don Luis.

"Then you are to be congratulated on possessing a treasure among
mines," Tom commented.

"I am delighted to hear you say that."

"But when we adjourn to your office," Reade continued, "there
are a few questions that I shall want to ask you."

"Why not ask them here, Senor Tomaso?" queried Don Luis, in his
purring, half affectionate voice.

"Here at your table?" protested Reade.

"But this is not dinner. This is a mere business luncheon," replied
Don Luis, with another smile.

"Yet I would like to discuss some of the samples with you, Don Luis,"
Tom explained. "Surely, you do not wish me to bring out dirty
samples to spread on your fine linen."

"It would matter not," declared the Mexican. "Still, if you have
scruples about the proprieties, then we will go to the office
within a few minutes."

The two who were smoking continued to do so. Don Luis started