Part 40 (2/2)
”I was right,” she cried. ”The name Abraham is spelled with an 'e.'
Do you really think this is a counterfeit?”
The lawyer took the bill and examined it critically.
”I have no doubt of it,” he answered. ”There are other indications--the general appearance, the touch of the paper. Where did you get it?”
For a moment the young girl was puzzled.
”Let me think. Where did I get it. Oh yes, I know. Francois gave it to me.”
”Francois!” exclaimed Helen.
The lawyer started and looked up in surprise.
”Francois, your brother-in-law's valet?”
”Yes--I wanted a $20 bill changed to pay for some things that came home from the store, and he went out and brought me some old bills and this new one.”
The lawyer gave vent to a low, expressive whistle.
”Francois gave it to you, eh? Where is Francois?”
”I discharged him to-day for insolence,” said Helen.
”He's gone!”
”Yes--he went shortly before you came in.”
The lawyer jumped to his feet, a look of exultation on his face.
Quickly, he said:
”Didn't you say that this Francois was formerly with Signor Keralio?”
”Yes--he was with him for years.”
The lawyer gave a wild whoop of joy.
”Then we've got it--at last.”
”Got what?” cried the women.
”A clue--a clue!” cried the lawyer, excitedly. ”Can't you see it?
Francois is hand in glove with Keralio--the master rogue who is making this counterfeit.”
”What do you propose to do?”
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