David lived in a small village with his mother. They were very poor and did not have enough food. David worked in a bar every day, but he still felt tired and hungry.

One day, he saw a newspaper. It said that people had found gold in the mountains. Many people were excited and wanted to go there. David felt hopeful. He told his mother about the news. She was worried, but she agreed. David also talked to his boss, and they decided to go together. The government said they must bring enough food for one year.

Soon, they packed their bags and started their journey. Many people walked together toward the mountains. After a long time, they reached a camp halfway up. The weather became very cold. At night, they used torches to see and stay safe.

The journey was very hard. Food started to run low. Some people got sick, and wild animals came near the camp at night. Some people were afraid and went back home. But David did not give up. He kept going with his mother and his boss.

At last, they arrived at the mining area. It was very crowded. People were digging everywhere and working very hard. One day, someone found gold dust. Everyone cheered, and the news spread quickly.

Soon, more and more people came. The camp turned into a busy town. Shops sold tools and food at very high prices. Some people became rich. David’s boss was lucky and found gold. He became rich and built a big house. But David and his mother were still poor.

Rich people spent money on drinking, gambling, and parties. Poor people could only eat cheap food. The rich showed their gold, and people started to argue. Gold theft happened more and more often.

The government sent officers to control the area. But the gold slowly ran out. Many people could not find any gold. They became disappointed and started to leave.

In the end, the gold fields were almost empty. Many people went away. Then a new newspaper said that gems were found in another place. People began to leave again to look for new fortune.

David stood quietly and thought about his future. He did not know if he should follow the crowd again or go back home with his mother.