or man, and Albert Marlowe is
rich. He will defy me, and perhaps swear that I was implicated in
the robbery myself. So I was, alas! for I accepted a bribe of two
hundred dollars for my part in the matter. I wish I could see poor
Barton righted!

Bert read this letter with flushed face and beating heart. Here was
proof positive that his father was innocent; and Albert Marlowe, the
rich manufacturer, the magnate of Lakeville, was guilty not only of
robbery, but, what was even more contemptible, had schemed successfully
to throw the guilt upon an innocent man, the husband of his cousin.
Through him John Barton had suffered a ten-years' exile, and had been
deprived for that time of his good name and the society of his family.

"I wouldn't take a thousand dollars for this letter," said Bert to
himself in exultation. "I don't know what it amounts to in the eyes of
the law, but I am sure it is valuable. Now, if I could only find Ralph
Harding himself."

Bert continued his search among the letters, and finally found one
postmarked Peoria, Illinois, which appeared to have been received by
Ralph Harding about a week before he left Harrisburg.

This is an extract therefrom:

It is five years since I have seen you. This is a long separation
considering that we two are the only ones left of the family. If
you are in your old business as I infer from your letter, why can't
you get work just as well here in Peoria as in Harrisburg? There is
a large shop here, where I think you would not have any difficulty
in securing employment. I presume as good wages are paid here as at
the East. We have a small room which you could occupy, and it would
be pleasant for a brother and sister who have been so long
separated to find themselves under the same roof.

My husband is a carpenter, as you know. His earnings are not large,
and he doesn't always have work, but we have a little sum saved up
which we can fall back upon in time of need. I can't lend you any
money, and indeed you ought not to expect it, as you are a single
man, and have no one to take care of but yourself. I am afraid you
are not a very good manager. Come to Peoria, and I will see if I
can't help you save money. Consider what a position you would be in
if you should fall sick.

Your affectionate sister,
HELEN CLIFTON.