Ebenezer and Baldy had been friends and partners for many years. They shared a small house, and a small gold claim, but their ailments were individualized. Baldy's eyes had been growing dim with the passing years, and Eben's eyesight was as good as ever, but rheumatism made it increasingly hard for him to leave the house. The two old men finally decided to invite Matilda - a windowed niece of Eben, to come and make her home with them. Her cheerful manner, fine cooking, and general efficiency made her a rare jewel. For a time, everything was serene. Until things changed...