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 "How long ago was that, sir?" asked Philip.

"As much as ten years, I fancy," returned the broker, reflectively. "It must have cleaned him out at the time. I knew nothing of him, of course."

"Then it was revenge that started him on this scheme about Gerald?"

"Certainly—and blackmail. I'd have had to come down roundly for you, Gerald," he added, laughing, taking his son's hand. "Perhaps I'd have had to sell that new black team you're so jealous of. You needn't be any longer, I think."

"He's a smart one for putting two and two together, that fellow."

"Of course. Each man possesses a talent of its kind."

"But what risks he ran! Even at the last, when he must have known there was a sharp possibility of his being overtaken that minute by the detectives, on account of the Wheelwright forgery, he wanted to carry Gerald off with him."

Mr. Marcy came into the topic. "Yes; and the plan nearly proved successful. If you will think, you will see how much he had in his