Part 30 (1/2)
”I want none of your impudence,” cried the broker. ”You were not as much of a man as this boy when I took you in, eight years ago.”
”Thanks,” returned Hardwick, coolly. ”Perhaps you would just as soon I would quit your service?”
”I would.”
”Then I will quit on the first of the year.”
”You will quit to-day, and without recommendations.”
”Without recommendations!”
”Yes. Let me tell you something. All last evening and this morning early I spent the time examining your books. I find you have made false entries, how many I do not know, and that you are a defaulter in the sum of several thousands of dollars.”
Hal was almost as much surprised at Mr. Sumner's statement as Hardwick.
”You--have--examined--the--books?” said the book-keeper, slowly.
”I have.”
Hardwick breathed hard. It was a terrible blow Mr. Sumner had dealt him.
He had supposed his little crooked actions in the office well hidden from prying eyes.
”You may have to prove what you say,” he exclaimed, haughtily.
”I can easily do so,” returned Mr. Sumner, coolly. ”Shall I send for an officer to take charge of you in the meanwhile?”
At the mention of an officer, Hardwick grew white, and his lips trembled.
”N-no!” he cried. ”There must be some mistake.”
”There is no mistake whatever. Do you deny that you have appropriated the bank funds of the firm----”
”Mr. Allen gave me the right to----”
”Mr. Allen had no rights, as you are aware. Our partners.h.i.+p is a limited one, and I shall settle with Mr. Allen later.”
”You can't hold me accountable for that money.”
”I can, but I won't, for I imagine the greater part of it has been spent. How much have you in your pocket now?”
”Sir!”
”You heard my question; answer me.”
”I will not! I'm no fool!”
”Very well. Hal, will you call a policeman?”
Hal started for the door. Hardwick caught him by the arm, and shoved him back.