Tire tracks, burnt brushwood, and deep holes that were hastily filled in: unknown persons have been tampering with the Hodgkinson Goldfields. The area is too far away from the camp to be guarded permanently. With Mat unable to protect the claim from intruders, he has no choice but to sell the claims. Of course, if potential buyers came across gold during the viewing, that would be helpful. That's why the adventurers go in search of the best spots.