They believe, also, that Hanz
Toodleburg, whose father knew Kidd well, and perhaps had something to do
with his adventures, is the only man now living who possesses the secret
of where that treasure is buried."
CHAPTER XI.
MRS. CHAPMAN CULTIVATES NEW ACQUAINTANCES.
It was spring-time of the year 1824. A new era in the history of the
nation's wealth and progress seemed to have fairly begun. Strong and
vigorous intellects ruled in the councils of the nation and inspired
confidence in the people. Science was breathing new life into our
enterprise, and leading us rapidly into new fields and richer prospects.
It was also brushing away the prejudices that had narrowed our thoughts
and confined our action to things of a past age. Steam was an adjustable
power now, a reality; still there were sensible men who shook their
heads in doubt; and the men who declared it would soon revolutionize the
commerce of the world were set down as not safe to do business with.
Steamboats of improved model and of increased size seemed to spring up
every day, and might be seen passing up and down the Hudson night and
morning.
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