"I am reproved, Rathbeal; but still I would rather not appear in the matter until the last moment, until it is certain that my appearance is necessary, and would benefit others. Will you take this office of friendship upon yourself, and make inquiries for me at the lawyer's?"
"Willingly, if you will give me full powers. I must be prepared to show that I am acting for you."
"Draw up a paper, Rathbeal. I will sign whatever you write."
In his neat handwriting Rathbeal drew out something in the shape of a power of attorney, which Robert Grantham signed. Before he went upon his mission Rathbeal made an appointment to meet Grantham at nine o'clock that night; the appointment would have been made for an earlier hour, but Grantham had some copying to finish and deliver, and the work could not be neglected.
When Rathbeal arrived at the offices of Paxton and Freshfield he asked to see one of the principals, and he heard a clerk tell another to see if Mr. Dixon was in. Mr. Dixon was not in, but Mr. Paxton was, and would see Mr. Rathbeal.
"I have come about this advertisement," he said, showing the cutting to an old gentleman wearing gold spectacles.
Mr. Paxton glanced at the advertisement, and said:
"Our partner, Mr. Dixon, has taken it in hand; he will return at four o'clock."
"I will wait for him," said Rathbeal, "but meanwhile you can perhaps give me some information concerning it."
"I know very little about it," said the lawyer, cautiously. "Mr. Dixon is in possession of the full particulars. You are not Mr. Grantham?" He referred to the card Rathbeal had sent in.