borhood, where property is increasing in value all the while,
and we have to charge high rents. Besides there is a good demand for
offices there."

This, Roy thought, was not the sort of information Mr. Annister had
sent to Mr. Bradner at the ranch.

"Do you own the building?" asked the western lad, wanting to see what
the agent would say.

"No, but I am in full charge. It would be no use for you to see the
owner, as he leaves everything to me. He would not give you any lower
rent rate than I would. Besides, he lives away out West, and never
comes to New York."

"Can you give me an idea of what the rents are for such offices as are
vacant?" asked Roy, trying not to let any Western expressions slip into
his talk, as he wanted to pose as a New Yorker.

"Is it for yourself?"

"No, for parties I represent."

"I can give you a list of such offices as are vacant, with the prices,
and you can go and see them. The janitor will show them to you, if I
send him a note."

"That will do very well."

Caleb Annister went over some books, and soon handed Roy a list of room
numbers, with the prices at which they rented by the month. It needed
but a glance at the list, and a rapid calculation on the part of Roy,
who was quick at figures, to see that if the entire building rented in
the same proportion, the income from it was much larger than what his
father was receiving. Clearly there was something wrong, and he must
find out where it was.

"I shall look at these offices," he said, "and let you know whether or
not they will suit my friend."

"What is the name?" asked Mr. Annister, preparing to write a note to
the janitor.

Now Roy was "up against it" as he put it. He did not want to give his
name, or Mr. Annister would suspect something at once, and, possibly,
put some obstacles in his way. Nor did he want to tell an untruth, and
give a false name. Finally he saw a way out of the difficulty.

He decided to give De Royster's name, as he had an idea that if Mr.
Annister proved to be dishonest, as it seemed he was, the young jewelry
salesman could be induced to take the agency of the building, at least
until he had to begin his travels again. To do this De Royster would
need an office in the building, so it would be no untruth for Roy to
give his name, and say he was looking for apartments for him. He knew
his friend would consent. So he said:

"You may make out the note in the name of Mortimer De Royster."