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 git fired maybe I can find something for you to do.”

“Thank you,” murmured Hatton. “Here comes President Thaxter. ”

“Who’s that with him?” scowled Nace.

“Only Abner Whitten and the two boys, known as Bub and Raddy,” quietly replied Hatton.

“Whitten! Why, I thought he—that is, I did not expect him,” faltered Nace, his jaw dropping.

“Yes, he got out alive; also brought the boys,” said Hatton simply.

“I don’t know what you mean by such talk,” cried Nace, his mouth tightening. “Why are they coming here? I was to meet old Thaxter alone.”

“That will do,” growled Hatton, knocking Nace’s hat from his head. “You are about to meet President Thaxter. And remember your manners.”

Nace started as if about to reach for a weapon, but Hatton’s hand resting in a drawer of the desk caused him to change his mind.

“President Thaxter, this is Jim Nace,” briefly announced Hatton, never removing his eyes from the operator.

“I have but a moment,” informed Thaxter.