It appears that Simeon Deaves has been the victim of an undeserved
unpopularity. Instead of being the soulless money-changer, as the
popular view had it, an individual without a thought or desire in life
except to heap up riches, he has placed himself in the ranks of our
most splendid philanthropists by the creation of the Deaves Trust, the
facts of which became known to-day. A sum approximating half a million
dollars has been set aside for the purpose of providing fresh air
excursions for the convalescent children of the poor. In the
administration of the fund Mr. Deaves has associated with himself Mr.
Cornelius Verplanck whose name is synonymous with good works. There is
to be a third trustee not yet named.

"The convalescent children of the poor! It would be difficult to think
of a more praiseworthy object. To bring roses back to little pale
cheeks, and the sparkle to dull eyes! Those who have thought harshly
of Simeon Deaves owe him a silent apology. Perhaps while people
reviled him, he has been carrying out many a good work in secret.
Perhaps that was his way of enjoying a joke at the expense of his
detractors.

"When approached to-day Mr. Deaves with characteristic modesty, refused
to say a word on the subject, referring all inquiries to his associate
Mr. Verplanck. Mr. Verplanck said: (_Add interview Verplanck._)"

Deaves rose out of his chair. His gaze was a little wild. "Do you
suppose--they would really print that--about my father?" he gasped.

"They say they will," said Evan with a disinterested air.

"I--I can't believe it! It's a joke of some kind!"

"It's worth trying. They don't ask for anything."

"What am I to do?" cried Deaves distractedly.

"Put it up to your father."

"He would never consent!"

"Why not? The money's gone anyway. He might as well have the
reputation of a philanthropist. Won't cost any more."

"He _would_ consent! That's the worst of it. He'd write that letter
to Verplanck. Then as soon as Verplanck got the bonds he'd go to him
and demand them back. There'd be a horrible scandal then!"

This was a possibility that had not occurred to Evan. His spirits went
down. At the moment no way of getting around the difficulty occurred
to him.

But George Deaves visibly nerved himself to make a resolution. "I'll
write the letter myself!" he said. "I'll create the trust in Papa's
name. I won't tell him anything about it until it's too late for him
to withd