Slinn has struck gold!

A prospector in the Wildest West of California near the town of "Rough-and-Ready," dirt-poor Slinn has been working a claim for weeks when he discovers a vein or bright quartz and shiny gold in his tunnel.

He can finally bring his family out to California. Should he build them a mansion here in this new and wonderful territory? Or would they prefer the civilization of San Francisco?

But before he can do anything, tell anyone, poor Slinn suffers a paralytic stroke. He can't communicate to anyone, let alone enjoy his newfound riches.

Years later, Alvin Mulready comes to "Rough-and-Ready." Sinking an artesian shaft into a shaft to make a well, Mulready strikes gold.

But then Slinn's son comes to the area and finds his father in a Sacramento hospital.

The old man stirs.

Gold shines in his eyes . . .

A classic tale of the West by the a Master of Western Fiction.