What gave the people of the valley the idea that the prophecy was about to come true for the first time?

The people of the valley got the idea that the prophecy was about to come true when they heard about Mr. Gathergold. He was a native of the valley who left long back but became very rich because of his skills. He wanted to spend his last days in the village and the people believed he will be the noble man to fulfil the prophecy.