“Yes. Well, Mr. Casey here knows all about my affairs; so you need have no hesitation in speaking in front of him,” laughed the real estate man somewhat harshly.
“I am Jerry Upton, and I came from Lakeview. My uncle, Charles Upton, who is now dead, was once interested in a colonization land scheme that you started.”
Jerry watch Mr. Slocum narrowly as he spoke, and saw that the man was greatly astonished. He started back, and for an instant the assuring look his face wore faded.
“Jerry Upton from Lakeview,” he murmured slowly. Then he cleared his throat. “I—I did not expect to see you.”
“I suppose not, sir.”
“What is it you want?”
“I want to find out how matters stand in regard to the land in California. My father heard you had gone to Europe.”
“I did go to Europe, but not to escape inquiry,” added Slocum, hastily. “You see, that scheme failed utterly,” he went on slowly. “Why, I lost nearly every dollar I possessed in it. What your uncle lost was nothing in comparison.”
“It was to him, Mr. Slocum. To whom does the land belong?”
“Why, it—er—it reverted to its original owners, some mine speculators of Denver.”