The King and I

My friend Will Chausee had a sapphire mine in Montana about 35 miles east of Hamilton.

He was an unlikely friend. Will owned a high-class cedar lumber operation, catering to high-end builders. He was a burly chap, probably 200 pounds if an ounce.

Over time we got thrown together through the Rotary Club and other endeavors.

Will kept inviting me to vacation at his Gem Mountain sapphire mine. So, my...