Part 7 (2/2)

”What was said?”

”I can't repeat the words, but they said the bonds were worth nearly eighty thousand dollars, and that the safe was often left open during the day.”

”It's an infamous story!” put in Hardwick, his face growing red. ”Mr.

Sumner, don't you believe the beggar.”

”I am telling the truth,” said Hal, as calmly as he could.

”Hush, Hardwick!”

”But, sir----” began the book-keeper.

”One story at a time. I will hear what you have to say later.”

”Do you mean to say you would take that boy's word against mine?”

demanded Hardwick, haughtily.

”I intend to listen to his story without further interruption from you,”

responded the broker, sternly. ”So please keep silent until your turn comes.”

Hardwick pulled at the ends of his mustache, but he did not dare to reply after this.

”Now go on, Carson,” said Mr. Sumner to Hal.

”I haven't much to tell, sir,” replied the youth.

And he related all he could remember of the fragment of a conversation which he had overheard.

The broker listened attentively, but his face fell when Hal had finished.

”And is that all?”

”Yes, sir.”

Mr. Sumner shook his head, and then turned to Hardwick.

”Is his story true?” he asked.

”It is true we spoke of the bonds,” replied the book-keeper. ”But nothing was said about stealing them. Why, Mr. Sumner--why should your own partner and trusted book-keeper conspire to rob you? It is preposterous! I have an idea.”

”What is this?”

”That he heard us speaking of your careless habit, and endeavored to form some scheme to get into the office and get hold of the bonds.”

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