In truth, I have something more
than enough for my needs. There was a time (I will confess) when I
had sold my soul, if I possessed such a thing, for a glimpse of what
lies written on that parchment. But I am old; and old age--"
He broke off the sentence and did not resume it, but went on
presently, with a change of tone: "However, I still keep a sporting
interest in the treasure, which has baffled me all these years, the
more so because I have a shrewd suspicion that it has lain all the
while within a mile or so of where we sit at this moment."
"It does, sir," said Miss Belcher, unfolding the chart and pointing.
Dr. Beauregard adjusted a pair of gold-rimmed eyeglasses and bent
towards it. The writing was indistinct, and he put out a hand as if
to take hold of the edge of the parchment and steady it. The hand, I
noticed, did not tremble at all.
"Stay a moment, sir." Miss Belcher turned the chart over. "The clue
is given here, upon the back. Listen." And she translated:--
"'Right bank of river a mile and a half up from Gow Creek.
Centre tree in clump of five: branch bearing north and half a
point east: two forks--'"
"My trees!" exclaimed the Doctor. "You remember my halting and
pointing them out to you? Ah, yes, and I, too, remember now that you
appeared to be disconcerted.
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