if found, that he will be liberally dealt with, if he helps
clear your father.

"I don't know how you may be situated as to money, and I therefore
send you an order for fifty dollars. Present it to Clement Green,
of No. 13-1/2 La Salle Street, and he will cash it. He is not a
banker, but an insurance agent, with whom I am well acquainted. I
am glad to hear that you have left the stage, as it will permit you
to devote your entire time to hunting up Ralph Harding."

On account of the income from his dramatic engagement, Bert had spent
but little of his uncle's money for the last three weeks. However, he
thought it best to cash the order at once, as he might have unforeseen
expenses. He accordingly made his way to the office on La Salle Street
to which he had been directed, and presented his order to Mr. Green in
person.

"How is my old friend Mr. Marlowe?" asked that gentleman, courteously.

"He was very well when I left New York," answered Bert.

"I knew him in California. In fact, we both worked together in the same
mine. Try to persuade him to come out to Chicago. I should be delighted
to entertain him. Are you a relative of his?"

"Yes, sir; he is my great uncle."

"Shall you stay long in Chicago?"

"I am not sure. It will depend on my business."

"You are young to be intrusted with a business matter."

"Yes, sir; but there was no one else to undertake it."

"How will you have the money?"

"In tens and fives."

"Very well. Let me advise you to divide your money and not carry it all
in your pocket-book. You know, of course, that in a city like this there
are pickpockets and designing persons who would be glad to rob you."

"Thank you for the suggestion. I will follow your advice." Bert borrowed
an envelope, and put all his money, except about ten dollars in small
bills, in the inside pocket of his vest. This was wise, for he had fifty
dollars besides the sum which he had just been paid. It proved to be a
prudent precaution.

Outside the office a young man of rather flashy appearance had noticed
Bert, and, following him in on some pretext that would avert suspicion,
had seen that Mr. Green was paying him money. He went out quickly, and
waited till Bert emerged into the street. He then quickened his steps,
and overtook him.

"Good-morning, young man," he said.

"Good-morning," returned Bert, eyeing the stranger with some curiosity.

"You must excuse the liberty I