calculated, it was found, and duly reported, that the company had made
six dollars and fifty-three cents.

This was not very encouraging. It was seldom that the creek was up more
than five days at a time, and so this was a very favorable opportunity
of testing the value of the line as a money-making concern.

It was urged, however, by the more sanguine members of the Board that
this was not a fair trial. There had been many expenses which probably
would not have to be incurred again.

"But they didn't amount to so very much," said Kate, who, as Treasurer,
was present at the meeting. "Aunt Judy only charged a dollar and a half
for Harry's board, and the boat was only a dollar. And all the other
expenses would have to be expected any time."

After some further conversation on the subject, it was thought best to
attend to present business rather than future prospects, and to appoint
committees to collect the money due the company.

Harry and Tom Selden were delegated to visit the mica-mine people, while
Harvey, Wilson Ogden, and Brandeth Price composed the committee to
collect what was due from private individuals.

Before Harry started for the mica mine, he consulted his father in
regard to charging full price for the telegrams which he carried across
the creek in his pocket.

Mr. Loudon laughed a good deal at the transaction, but he told Harry
that there was no reason why he should not charge for those telegrams.