"So Philip tells me. I shall bring him to a strict accounting, and make him pay over every penny if he has it."

"I am anxious to get back to New York," I said. "Now I have decided on what to do I am impatient to begin."

"I guess you will be able to start by to-morrow noon. I will try to arrange it with Judge Boyden, so there will be no trouble. But I am sorry I shall not be able to go with you."

"No?" I repeated, in considerable dismay, for I had counted on the lawyer accompanying me.

"Business will keep me in Boston for a week or more. But I have already written to Mr. Ira Mason to take your case in charge."

"Mr. Mason!" I exclaimed.

"Yes. You said you knew him, and he is as good a lawyer as I could get. What do you think of it?"

"I like it very much," I replied.

"I thought you would. I told Mr. Mason to spare no expense to clear you and also to have the subject of your uncle's guardianship investigated. I know he will do what I asked."

"I am sure he will."