“I have broken up tubs and ropes on the cart-roads and highways, and sometimes met with a grain of corn or barley.”

“That is indeed dainty fare,” said the father, “but take care what thou art about and look carefully around, especially when thou seest anyone stooping and about to pick up a stone, there is not much time to stay then.”

“That is true,” said the son, “but what if anyone should carry a bit of rock, or ore, ready beforehand in his breast or pocket?”

“Where hast thou seen that?”

“Among the mountaineers, dear father; when they go out, they generally take little bits of ore with them.”