arsely cried
Ferris. "I suppose that all the railroad people and our ranch men
have gathered around her, and she has dozens of volunteer advisers.
By God! I'll straighten her out when I meet her."

The young Detroit lawyer met Ferris' agonized glances squarely,
and his voice rang as coldly as the clang of steel when he quietly
said, handing back the papers: "I must tell you, Mr. Ferris," he
answered, with decision, "that I release you from any obligation to
me for my services so far. I shall decline to express any personal
or professional opinion in this matter until I get further orders."
Ferris sprang back like a tiger cat at bay.

"Orders! Orders from whom?" he almost yelled.

"From my seniors at Detroit," quietly answered Jack, "or from Miss
Alice Worthington. I am surprised at the tone in which you refer
to her! What are your claims upon her?

"Of course, as a brother professional, you know that your power
of attorney from poor old Hugh ended with his appallingly sudden
death. That demise also vacates the letter of instructions given
to you."

"But I am the vice-president of the company," growled Ferris, scenting
a possible enemy in the imperturbable young advocate. "True, but
you are not a judge on the bench. You have suspended all the officers
here, usurped their powers, and taken great responsibilities. Do
you control a majority of the stock of the Western Trading Company?"
Ferris winced.

"Of course, you know I don't; but the Worthington estate does!"

"What power have you to represent that estate?" pursued the unpitying
Witherspoon.

"It looks as if Miss Worthington would act herself, and, also, have
other advisers. I now, as a friend to all parties, warn you that
you will be held responsible for all your acts here. You must not
ask me for any further advice."

"I suppose you will volunteer your legal acumen to the young heiress,
now!" sneered Ferris. He regretted his brutal outbreak, for John
Witherspoon rose with calmness.

"I own five hundred shares of the stock myself, earned as a fee,
from the late Mr. Worthington.

"I shall claim my right to have access to the company's public
offices, and to watch your strange floundering around here. We
will drop our social and personal intercourse right here--forever.
Your last remark is so vile that it is beneath contempt."

Witherspoon was at the door when Ferris laid his pleading hands
upon his arm.

The Detroit man shook them off. "I warn y