I was safe from
intrusion, and even from idle curiosity, for the reason I have just
mentioned. In fact, so exclusive was the attraction of the new
gold-fields that I had difficulty in obtaining workmen, and finally I
sent to Africa and engaged negroes, whom I placed in charge of
trustworthy foremen. Accordingly, with half a dozen exceptions, you
will see only black men at the mine."
"And with their aid you have mined enough metal to supply the mints of
the world?" asked President Boon.
"Exactly so," was the reply. "But I no longer employ the large force
which I needed at first."
"How much metal have you on hand? I am aware that you have already
answered this question during our preliminary negotiations, but I ask
it again for the benefit of some members of our party who were not
present then."
"I shall show you to-day," said Dr. Syx, with his curious smile, "2500
tons of refined artemisium, stacked in rock-cut vaults under the Grand
Teton."
"And you have dared to collect such inconceivable wealth in one
place?"
"You forget that it is not wealth until the people have learned to
value it, and the governments have put their stamp upon it.
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