."

There was considerable surprise on the part of the clerk at the hotel
when Roy came back. On the way he and Mortimer De Royster had agreed
it would be better not to say anything about the reason for the taking
away of the boy from the ranch--a veritable kidnapping in fact. So it
was explained that Roy had recovered from his temporary illness, and
had simply been away on business, which was true enough in its
way,--though it was not very pleasant business.

"Now," said De Royster, when he and Roy were once more back in the
former's room. "This is what I would do. I would consult a good
lawyer, and let him advise me. I think this is too much for you to
handle alone."

"I believe you are right. Do you know a good lawyer?"

"I can introduce you to the one who does business for our firm. He is
very reliable, and his charges are reasonable."

"Then we will go see him, after I have changed my clothes. Sleeping in
them hasn't made them look exactly as new as they were."

"That's a good idea. Have you heard from your father since writing to
him about Annister?"

"I don't know. Perhaps a letter came while I was away. I wonder where
they would send it?"

"They would keep it here until you gave them some instructions for
forwarding it. I'll inquire at the desk for you while you are changing
your clothes."

As Roy had purchased two suits on coming to New York, he had a new one
to put on, while the other was sent to be pressed. He had not finished
dressing when De Royster came back.

"No letters, but there's a telegram," he said, handing Roy the yellow
envelope.

The boy tore it open and read:

"Letter received. No doubt Annister is swindler. You are doing right.
Keep after him. Don't spare expense. Take property from his control,
and give to some good man. I leave it to you. Answer when you get
this."

"Why this came yesterday," said Roy. "Dad will be wondering why he
doesn't hear from me."

"Then you had better answer at once. There is a branch telegraph
office in the hotel lobby. Write an answer and I'll take it down while
you finish dressing."

A reply was soon prepared and sent. Meanwhile Roy got ready for the
street and, accompanied by De Royster, he went to the lawyer's office.

The legal gentleman greeted Mortimer De Royster cordially. Roy was
quite surprised to find out how many friends the jewelry salesman had.
Everyone seemed to like him in spite of his odd ways.

Roy's s