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 reality Paul Hazelton, of Princeton, and made the claim that, because of "unterminated negotiations," Riley held an indisputable right to the man's services. Locke's face wore a half-mocking smile as he listened to the reading.

"You have heard the charge, sir," said Anson Graham, turning to Tom. "What answer have you to make?"

This was the moment Cope had dreaded, but his pitcher had given assurance that he would be ready to meet every charge, and he waited now, his lips parted, for the young man to answer. His surprise, however, amounted to something bordering on consternation when Locke quietly replied:

"It seems to me, Mr. President, that the first duty of the man who makes this charge is to establish that I am the party referred to in the document."

"Huh!" grunted Riley, without regard for the regular order of procedure. "'Twon't do ye no good to deny it. We've got the proof."

"Pardon me, Riley," said Graham reprovingly; "I am questioning the young man. Do you deny, sir, that you are Paul Hazelton, of Princeton?"

"Yes, sir," was the prompt, clear answer, "I deny it."