“The packet he delivered to me was my own. It contained some legal documents belonging to this office.”
“You may make others believe that, Mr. Slocum, but—”
“But what, boy? Remember, I want none of your insolence here. I will listen to you, but you mustn’t grow impertinent.”
“I’m only speaking the truth. You virtually robbed me, just as you robbed my father and Mr. Bryant Ardell.”
“Ha!” Slocum leaped to his feet. “Who—where did you hear of Bryant Ardell?” he asked, excitedly.
“I have met Nellie Ardell several times—in fact, I am boarding with her.”
“Did she set you to hounding me?”
“No; we met by accident after I had come to New York almost on purpose to see you.”
“She is an impudent young woman.”
“She told me that you had her land papers, just as you now have mine.”