Chapter 859 Gif (1/2)
Knowing Hans's intention, Li Du felt amused and wanted to keep calling. In fact, if he did not call, Hans would certainly call him back. Hans could not keep his secret and was always trying to show off. That was why he had been calling the other day. However, Li Du did not want to not call, because he had not answered Hans several times last week. He figured he shouldn't give Hans a hard time now.
He was about to try to call again when old Elson came by. Elson was busier than Li Du was these days, and though they spent more time together, they actually communicated less.
Over a cup of Sophie's coffee, Elson said, ”Steve's in great shape. He's ok. I'm going to meet him in Sydney.”
Li Du breathed a sigh of relief and said, ”That is really good news.”
Elson said, ”He's been a bit depressed lately. To be honest, Li, Steve is really serious about this trip. He was trying to find some gems with his own hands.”
”I can tell he's a determined guy,” said Li Du.
”Watching Steve recuperate, he is definitely not suited for the hard physical work of mining. His heart can't take on too much,” Elson lamented. ”I came to say goodbye to you. Steve and I have been a lot of trouble,” said Elson.
”That's very kind of you, but where is the trouble? I don't see it,” said Li Du.
Elson laughed and said, ”Steve and I have to thank you and apologize for the trouble we have caused you, and I have a gift for you before we leave.” It was normal for Americans to exchange gifts, and Li Du also had a gift for Steve. He winked at Sophie, who knew what he meant. She took out a beautifully wrapped box from her desk drawer. The box contained the half polished black opal. It was exquisite and raw.
Elson also took out his gift, which was a package of documents that included land use certificates and mine real estate certificates.
Seeing these certificates, Li Du asked, ”This is?”
”This is Steve's order. He felt pitiful that he could not dig for the gems himself, so he is giving you this mine,” said Elson.
”Is he asking me to help him take care of the house?” Li Du asked tentatively.
Elson smiled, waved, and said, ”No, he is giving you this mine.”
Surprised, Li Du said, ”God, these mines are worth millions of dollars.”
Elson replied, ”We owe you more than a million dollars. Besides, is $10,000,000 a lot?”
Elson had given Li Du all the licenses along with the number 120 mine that he had bid on in the auction. Li Du tried to decline, but Elson stopped him by saying, ”This is Master Steve's arrangement. I'm just the clerk. If you want to refuse, please talk to him in person.”
Hearing Elson use the term ”Master Steve,” Li Du was too embarrassed to say anything. Clearly, Elson was talking about status, meaning he had to follow orders. So, after a lot of red tape, Li Du became the owner of the surrounding mines. Together with the other two mines, he now owned 16 mines and was already a mine landlord in Lightning Ridge.