As they read a strange look came over Viola's face.
Miss Carwell, perusing a document, recited:
“Memo. of certain matters between Captain Poland and myself. And while I think of it let me state that but for his timely and generous financial aid I would have been ruined by that scoundrel Bartlett. Captain Poland saved me. And should the stock of the concern ever be on a paying basis I intend to repay him not only all he advanced me but any profit I may secure shall be divided with him in gratitude. That there will be a profit I very much doubt, though this does not lessen my gratitude to Captain Poland for his aid.”
There was a little gasp from Viola as she heard this.
“Captain Poland saved father from possible ruin,” she murmured, “and I—I treated him so! Oh! oh!”
CHAPTER XV. POOR FISHING
“Have a drink, Colonel?”
“Eh?”
“I said—Here, boy! A Scotch high and a mint julep.”