win was dead--committed suicide,"
exclaimed Ben, in wild amazement.

"The world thinks so; but the world is mistaken. I will tell you the
whole story. I found myself getting old. In all probability I had
but a few years to live. By industry and economy I had
accumulated a fortune, which I must leave behind me. I was
anxious that it should not be squandered. I selected John Tremlett
as my heir. So far as I knew he was devoted to my interests, and
he seemed steady in his habits. But it occurred to me to try him.
Accordingly I sent a letter to my lawyer, Solomon Brief, who had
my will in his possession, announcing my intention to commit
suicide, and directing him to open the will and carry out the
provisions. Then I left Montreal secretly, staying a short time in
northern Vermont. Later I came on to Boston and managed to
throw myself in your way. Not knowing me, you treated me with
kindness and consideration. I became interested in you, and
regretted that I had made no provision for you and your aunt.
Through you I have learned how unwisely I disposed of my fortune.
Thank Heaven it is not too late to remedy that.

"This seems like a romance, Mr. Benton--I mean, Uncle Matthew."

"Yes; call me uncle. I like to feel that I have somebody to live for."

"Come out to Milltown with me, Uncle Matthew. Aunt Jane will be
delighted to see you," said Ben.

"I have work to do first," said the old man firmly. "I must go to
Montreal, and you must go with me."

"I am not sure that Jones & Porter will allow me."

"Then throw up your situation. You shall lose nothing by it."

"When do you wish to start?"

"To-night," said Mr. Baldwin resolutely.

"Then I must go to the store, at once, and give notice of my absence."

Ben lost no time in going to the store. He explained matters fully,
and obtained a week's leave of absence. Then he bought tickets
for his uncle and himself, and they set out on their long journey.

Chapter XXXVII

The Dead Alive

Mr. Brief was considerably surprised when Ben entered his office.

"I thought you had gone back to Boston," he said.

"I have been back to Boston, Mr. Brief, and returned to Montreal
on business."

"Didn't you finish up your business here?"

"I thought so, sir; but I was mistaken."

"I am afraid you are not a very good manager. It looks to me like
waste of time. What can I do for you?"

"A gentleman came with me, who thinks he would like to have yo