Part 27 (2/2)
Naturally, Harry was much pleased at his easy success. He had only to go to the office mentioned and communicate what he knew, and leave Mr.
Wheeler to take the necessary steps for the recovery of the property.
Should he attend first to that, or to the sale of the coupons? On the whole, he decided to go to Mr. Wheeler's office first, as the tin box might be removed at any time, if the suspicions of Vernon or Temple should be excited.
It was, of course, perfectly easy to find any address on Broadway, and not many minutes elapsed before Harry found himself before the door of office No. 10.
Entering--for the door was ajar--he saw a large, handsomely fitted-up office, with a small room part.i.tioned off at one corner.
In this room sat a man of middle age, with a keen face and a brisk air, which indicated that he was a trained man of business.
Outside, at a desk, sat a young man, evidently a clerk, who was busily engaged in writing. It was he who looked up when Harry entered and looked hesitatingly about.
”Well, Johnny, what can I do for you?” said the young man, patronizingly.
”Is Mr. Wheeler in the office?”
”Yes; but he is busy.”
”He will see me,” said Harry, with quiet confidence.
”Will he?” asked the young man, surveying our hero with some curiosity.
”Who do you come from?”
”From no one. I have business of my own with Mr. Wheeler.”
”Who is it?” asked an imperative voice.
”A boy to see you, sir,” answered the clerk, respectfully.
”Bring him in, then, and don't waste his time and your own in unnecessary talk.”
”Waste his time, indeed,” muttered the clerk, who evidently did not regard Harry's time as particularly valuable.
”Well, young man,” said the lawyer--for such was his business--as Harry entered his presence. ”What is it?”
”I should like a private interview, sir,” said Harry, glancing at the clerk, who was hovering near.
”Shut the door, and resume your writing, Richard,” said Mr. Wheeler.
Shrugging his shoulders, with a disappointed look, Richard obeyed.
”I came to see you about the advertis.e.m.e.nt,” said Harry, coming to the point at once.
The lawyer started, and eyed Harry keenly. Could the boy be one of the thieves, or was he merely acting as a go-between?
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