"I have reason to believe he went home last night. He gave a note to Dick Ferris and I followed Ferris. It nearly cost me my life."
And Hal related the particulars. Horace Sumner listened with keen interest. When he learned how Hal had been struck down, and afterward found himself in the icy vat, he shuddered.
"That will never do," he cried. "Hal, you must give up running such risks. I would not have you lose your life for all the bonds in New York. We will call in one of the regular detectives and——"
"No, Mr. Sumner, I started on my theory and I wish to finish the work. I did not know how desperate the men were with whom I have to deal, but in the future I shall be prepared for them. And I wish to ask a favor."
"What is it?"
"Will you advance me a little money? I may need it in traveling around, and my disguises may cost——"
"You shall have what you please, Hal. You are the only one I have in the office to depend on, and you are doing a remarkable work for one so young."
"If you will let me have, say ten or fifteen dollars——"
"Here are fifty," returned Mr. Sumner, handing over five crisp ten-dollar bills. "When you need more let me know."
"But—but I won't want this much!" gasped Hal.