In 1912, twelve-year-old Thomas lived in a quiet village in Cornwall, England.
One day, while helping clean the old church, he noticed something odd — a crack in the back wall. Curious, he took a closer look and discovered a scroll hidden inside.
It was a hand-drawn map. And at the bottom, in faded ink:
“To those who dare — follow your gut.”
Thomas showed it to his grandfather, a retired sailor.
He smiled. “Looks like someone wanted their treasure found.”
“You think it’s real?”
Grandfather chuckled. “It’s a long shot, but why not?”
The next morning, with a compass and a packed lunch, Thomas set out on his secret mission.
He climbed hills, crossed creeks, and dodged a very angry goose.
Three hours in, he almost gave up.
But then he saw it — an old oak tree, marked with a red X.
Thomas dug under the roots and found a tin box filled with coins, photos, and a letter that began:
“Dear brave soul, you made it. Good things come to those who wait.”
He ran home, grinning from ear to ear.
He’d struck gold — literally.
Idioms Used in the Story
1. Take a closer look
Meaning: To examine something more carefully.
Examples:
- Take a closer look at this signature — it looks fake.
- He took a closer look at the painting and noticed a hidden symbol.
2. Follow your gut
Meaning: To trust your instinct or feeling rather than logic.
Examples:
- I followed my gut and turned left — and found the right house!
- Sometimes you just need to follow your gut.
3. It’s a long shot
Meaning: It’s unlikely, but possible; a risky or uncertain chance.
Examples:
- Winning the lottery is a long shot, but someone has to win.
- It’s a long shot, but maybe he’ll say yes.
4. Good things come to those who wait
Meaning: Be patient — rewards come with time.
Examples:
- She waited two years to get the job — good things come to those who wait.
- Don’t rush it. Good things come to those who wait.
5. Strike gold
Meaning: To find success, valuable things, or luck.
Examples:
- He struck gold with that business idea.
- We struck gold when we found this hidden beach.
