“Why, he said he could only get together two thousand dollars at present, but that later he would have some endowment insurance falling due––”

“How soon?”

“About a year, I think he said.”

“Well, he ought to be able to borrow on that. Did you write him so?”

“No––but I can.”

“Do so––but only hint at it. And tell him to send his check at once for the stock he has agreed to take.”

“Why, he sent that some days ago. I thought you––”

“He did?” cried Ketchim, his interest now fully aroused. “Well, where is it?”

“Er––your brother James received the letter, and I believe he put the check in his pocket.”

Ketchim gave vent to a snort of rage. “You tell James,” he cried, pounding the desk with his fist, “that as president and treasurer of the Molino Company I demand that check!”