Part 25 (2/2)
”He's a cool chap,” muttered the ruffian. ”But it's clear he knows nothing of our affair. I was a fool to make a fuss. It might lead to suspicion.”
”What a dreadful man!” said Philip, as the two were walking away.
”Do you know him?”
”His name is Ralph Temple. He's a kind of tramp.”
”He's an impertinent fellow, at any rate. It's well I had my revolver with me.”
They walked back to the village, momentarily expecting to see or hear something of Harry Gilbert; but neither then nor later in the day was their curiosity gratified.
CHAPTER XX
ON THE WAY TO NEW YORK
Harry stepped on board the train without seeing any one whom he knew, and took a seat on the right-hand side. Just in front of him was an elderly farmer, with a face well browned by exposure to the sun and wind. He had a kindly face, and looked sociable. It was not long before he addressed our young hero.
”Going to New York?” he asked.
”Yes, sir.”
”Are you acquainted there?”
”No, sir; not much.”
”Nor I. I was thinking you might be able to direct me to a place where I could get money for some cowpons.”
”Government coupons?” inquired Harry, becoming interested.
”Yes. You see, my wife's uncle died not long ago, and left Sarah a government bond of a thousand dollars, drawing six per cent interest.
There's thirty dollars due the first of this month, and I told Sarah that I'd go and collect it for her.”
”I've got some business of that same kind,” said Harry. ”I was told there were brokers' offices in Wall Street, where I could collect the money without any trouble.”
”I'll go with you,” said the farmer, in a tone of satisfaction. ”If he'll buy yours, he'll buy mine.”
”I shall be glad to have your company,” said Harry, politely.
It flattered his vanity that a man old enough to be his grandfather was disposed to be guided by him in a matter of such importance.
Just then a smooth voice was heard from the seat behind.
”Gentlemen,” said a young man, showily dressed and with a profusion of rings on his fingers, ”excuse my interrupting you, but I may be able to save you some trouble.”
They naturally waited for an explanation of these words.
”I overheard you saying that you had some coupons to dispose of.”
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