nto the room. Both Stubbles and the
Squire sprang to their feet when they beheld the very man they had been
denouncing. Stubbles was about to launch forth in hot, angry words
when his eye rested upon the lawyer. In an instant his manner changed,
and, ignoring Douglas, he rushed forward and seized Garton by the hand.

"This is a very pleasant surprise," he cried. "I had no idea that you
were in the place. Allow me to introduce my friend, Squire Hawkins."

Though outwardly affable, both Stubbles and the Squire were very uneasy
at the arrival of Jake's hired man in company with the ablest lawyer in
the city. What does it mean? each asked himself, and anxiously awaited
further developments.

"I have come to see you on special business, Mr. Stubbles," the lawyer
began, "and as my time is limited, I wish to discuss the matter with
you at once."

"Why, certainly," Stubbles returned. "We can be as private here as
anywhere, sir. Your--er--companion can wait for you at the store."

"No, I wish him to stay where he is," Garton replied.

"Do you wish Squire Hawkins to remain, too?" Stubbles anxiously
enquired.

"That is for you to decide. It is immaterial to me, at present,
whether he goes or stay, though I wish to speak to him later."

"He might as well remain, then," Stubbles replied. "We have been bosom
friends for years, and I always take him into my confidence. He is a
man to be relied upon."

"I shall come to the point at once, Mr. Stubbles," the lawyer began.
"You have written to me telling of your financial difficulties, and
asking for a loan of ten thousand dollars."

Squire Harkins stared in amazement at these words. His weak lower jaw
dropped, and his mouth flew suddenly open. This was certainly a
remarkable revelation.

"But before I go further," the lawyer continued, "I would like to know
the cause of your unfortunate situation. It is a great surprise, for
you have been doing a big business."

"I know it," and Stubbles' eyes dropped. "I would not be in this
position to-day but for my family. My daughters, I regret to say, have
not been as careful as they might have been, but my son is really the
one who has ruined me. He has spent my money lavishly and
extravagantly, and though I have reasoned with him many a time, it was
to no avail. I know I have been weak, and the money that should have
been used in connection with my business has gone to him. There, you
have my confession, sir," an