Page:On to Pekin.djvu/348

316 a lump of lead on my soul ever since you saved my life."

"Sixteen thousand dollars' worth of stock?"

"Yes, and worth thirty-two thousand dollars in the money market. Pennington, you shall have what is due you, even if I have to force my father into giving it to you."

"That is the stock my father placed in his hands just before his death?"

"Yes."

"How did you learn of this? Did your father tell you?"

Nuggy Polk hung his head for a moment. "No, he didn't tell me. I was at his private safe at home one day, and I found the missing certificates. I had had a row with father over some money matters; and, when he came home, I threatened to expose him if he didn't give me what I wanted. Ever since that time we have worked hand in glove together, and he has allowed me all the spending money I wanted. But that is past now. I am going to lead a straight life, and I am going to try to get father to do the same."