Eight More Guineas

Gold has always lured people. It whirled their heads, drove them mad. It promised power and boundless permissiveness, pulling them toward radiant horizons of a new life. And yet it often betrayed those who tried to stake their fate on it. Treasure caches—and lost riches—are just waiting for the hour when a quick, lucky fellow will seize them. And what enterprising person could resist the chance to become a little richer without much effort? There’s only one thing the seekers of noble metal don’t know: gold can defend itself. Sometimes even with the hands of those who never seemed threatening. And it’s because, for these people, the chance to find treasure means far more than it does for bigger, serious figures. If you’re ready to shed blood for gold, be prepared to meet someone willing to give their life for gold. And staring Death in the face, ask yourself: was it worth it?..