ad no
previous business experience, was capable of looking after his own
interests.

"Perhaps you will kindly explain," said the agent, in a tone he meant
to be sarcastic, but which did not deceive Roy.

"Certainly. I accuse you of charging high rents for the offices in the
Bleecker Building, and with sending my father only about half of what
you collect!"

"Oh! So that's the game; is it?" asked the agent, with a sneer.
"Perhaps you know how much I take in as rent for the offices in that
building?"

"I can pretty nearly figure it out," and Roy mentioned a sum that was
so near the mark that Mr. Annister was startled.

"And perhaps you know what the expenses are, the taxes, the water rent,
the insurance and so forth?"

"No, but I know what you charged my father for those items, and, taking
them out, at your figures, and also your commission, it would leave a
larger sum than we ever received."

Mr. Annister saw that he was dealing with no novice, even if the lad
was from the western ranch. He resolved to proceed on a different plan.

"You may think yourself very smart," he said to Roy, "but you do not
understand New York real estate."

"I understand enough for this case, I think."

"I'm afraid not," and the agent smiled. He was beginning to get
command of his nerves. "You see there are many expenses you do not
know of."

"You never mentioned them to my father."

"No, I could not. Besides, how do I know that your father sent you to
make these inquiries? I do not even know you are Roy Bradner. You may
be an impostor."

"I think I can soon prove to you who I am. As for my authority, there
is a letter from my father to you, instructing you to turn this
business over to me at my demand."

He handed Mr. Annister a letter to this effect written by Mr. Bradner,
and properly executed before a notary public. The rascally agent knew
the signature of Mr. Bradner only too well.

But he was not going to give up so easily.

"Any one can write a letter, and forge a signature," he said.

"Then you think I forged my father's name?" and a dangerous look came
into Roy's eyes. It was a look such as that when he stopped the
runaway horse.

"I don't care to have any further conversation with you," said Mr.
Annister, sneeringly. "I do not recognize your authority. How do I
know you are Roy Bradner? You will have to bring me better proof than
this. Besides, even if you are who you say you are, that does not