Page:The Campaign of the Jungle.djvu/91

Rh blanched even as he spoke. "I know nothing of that man or his money. I—I was deceived in him."

"If that is so, why did you leave Manila in such a hurry?"

"I—I wanted to help my brother, who was in trouble. I have not seen a dollar of Bogg's money. 'Tis he who still owes me for his board, black wretch that he was!" roared Benedicto Lupez, savagely.

At these words Larry was startled. Was Lupez really telling the truth, and if so, where was the money that had wrecked the saving institution?

"He didn't even pay his board?"

"Not one piaster, boy,—nothing. And I thought him honest, or I would not have taken him in."

"But his valise is gone, and the bands around the money—"

"Were as he left them. I can swear I touched absolutely nothing," answered Benedicto Lupez, earnestly.

Larry was nonplussed. Had the Spaniard looked less of a villain, the young sailor would have been inclined to believe him. But that face was so crafty and calculating that he still hesitated.