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140 other property which is being withheld from you. In that case, should the interested persons learn that Horace Chester's son was in Fairfax something might happen to you."

The last words were uttered so significantly that Bob could not fail to understand Mr. Nichols' meaning, and when the latter continued, "I want you to promise me you will call yourself Bob Nichols fill I have learned the truth of this matter," the boy solemnly consented.

"Good! Not only is it for your own safety, but it will enable you to investigate quietly without arousing suspicion.

"This will be our secret, Bob. You must not tell a soul, not even Mr. Perkins."

"I won't, sir."

Realizing from Bob's expression that he had aroused sad thoughts and memories, the vice-president stood up and said:

"Now that we have made this agreement, we will dismiss it from our minds for the present. I want you to come to dinner and the theatre with me."

"But my pass and the train?" exclaimed Bob.

"Your train, or rather the limited, on which I shall send you, does not leave until eleven. I'll send for your pass now." And, pressing a button, he ordered the clerk who responded to fetch Bob's pass.