"Now go on, Carson," said Mr. Sumner to Hal.
"I haven't much to tell, sir," replied the youth.
And he related all he could remember of the fragment of a conversation which he had overheard.
The broker listened attentively, but his face fell when Hal had finished.
"And is that all?"
"Yes, sir."
Mr. Sumner shook his head, and then turned to Hardwick.
"Is his story true?" he asked.
"It is true we spoke of the bonds," replied the book-keeper. "But nothing was said about stealing them. Why, Mr. Sumner—why should your own partner and trusted book-keeper conspire to rob you? It is preposterous! I have an idea."
"What is this?"