Geology for Beginners

At the hut northwest of Strawberry, Francis Sinclair steps outside to meet the protagonist. Speaking at speed, he produces a book filled with drawings of unusual Rock Carvings and asks for their locations. He promises payment for the information, hands over his card, and goes back inside the hut.

The protagonist travels across the frontier, locating the ten Rock Carvings and recording each site. The locations are sent to Francis through Post Offices as they are found. After the first report, Francis sends $10 and Kentucky Bourbon. A Rock Statue follows after five carvings have been reported, and the tenth brings an invitation from Francis.

Two days after the final letter is mailed, the protagonist returns to Francis' cabin. Francis is absent. Tom Sinclair is dead, and his wife receives the visitor while holding a baby who bears the same birthmark as Francis. The drawings sent to Francis have been assembled into a mural on the wall. An Old Brass Compass rests on a table inside the cabin.