Klondike Medicine Woman

The Tucker sisters talked at once and Lana tried to insert a comment.

Mack held up his hand to silence them. “I know there’s lots of work to do yet. But with the sawmill now operating, it’s easier to get construction done.” He sat back, a dreamy look on his face.

Lana gave him an affectionate yet accusing look. “As if you didn’t have enough work without starting a sawmill.”

Mack patted her hand. “It’s important to get things done speedily. Once the steeple is done, people will see the church as soon as they venture into the harbor.” He brought his gaze back to those around him and Jacob was struck by the determination he saw. “They will understand what this town stands for.” He squeezed Lana’s hand. “Soon people will learn the real treasure isn’t up the trail or buried around town, but in knowing and obeying God.”

Jacob looked from one to the other. “Real treasure? What’s this all about?”

Frankie shrugged. “According to the legend, a Russian czar buried sixty nuggets of gold somewhere out here. Thomas Stone found six nuggets. People don’t believe he found all the treasure. They aren’t going to stop looking until they find it all.”

Mack sighed heavily. “It’s nothing but gossip and speculation that there is a buried treasure in the vicinity. They speculate I have a fortune hidden somewhere. In part because I have no use for bankers.”

Jacob wondered at the way Mack glanced at Lucy.