John Quincy stared down at the little pink slip she had given him. By the light of one of the small lamps he saw that it was a check for five thousand dollars, made out to "Bearer" and signed by Dan Winterslip. The date was that of the day before.
"I say, that looks important, doesn't it?" John Quincy said. He handed it back to her, and thought a moment. "By gad—it is important. It seems to me it's pretty conclusive evidence of your father's innocence. If he had that, his business with Cousin Dan must have come to a successful end, and it isn't likely he would—er—do away with the man who signed it and complicate the cashing of it."
The girl's eyes shone. "Just the way I reasoned. But I don't know what to do with it."
"Your father has engaged a lawyer, of course."
"Yes, but a rather poor one. The only kind we can afford. Should I turn this over to him?"
"No—wait a minute. Any chance of seeing your father soon?"
"Yes. It's been arranged I'm to visit him in the morning."
John Quincy nodded. "Better talk with him before you do anything," he advised. He had a sudden recollection of Egan's face when he refused to explain his business with Dan Winterslip. "Take this check with you and ask your father what he wants done with it. Point out to him that it's vital evidence in his favor."
"Yes, I guess that's the best plan," the girl agreed. "Will—will you sit down a moment?"
"Well." John Quincy recalled Miss Minerva waiting impatiently for news. "Just a moment. I want to know how you're getting on. Any big arithmetical problems come up yet?"