"Isn't there any such mine at all?" asked Joe.

"Oh, yes, there is such a mine, but it was abandoned two years ago,
after ten thousand dollars had been sunk in it. They said it paid so
little that it was not worth considering."

"That is certainly too bad for you," said Joe. "And you can't find any
trace of Caven or Malone?"

"No, both of the rascals have disappeared completely. I tried to trace
Caven and his broker friend in Philadelphia but it was of no use. More
than likely they have gone to some place thousands of miles away."

"Yes, and probably this Ball, or Malone, has joined them," put in Andrew
Mallison. "Mr. Vane, I am exceedingly sorry for you."

"I am sorry for myself, but I deserve my loss, for being such a fool,"
went on the victim.

"Have you notified the police?" asked Joe.

"Oh, yes, and I have hired a private detective to do what he can, too.
But I am afraid my money is gone for good."

"You might go and reopen the mine, Mr. Vane."

"Thank you, but I have lost enough already, without throwing good money
after bad, as the saying is."