"I understand." Jefferson Wilbur's voice grew stern. "I don't think, though, that I'll have much trouble with him. Come with me."
Bruce was introduced, and the party of four walked to the offices. The main entrance was unlocked, and they threw open the door and Dale lit the large swinging lamp. Then the inner door opened, and Jefferson Wilbur and Ulmer Balasco found themselves face to face.
For the moment there was utter silence, Ulmer Balasco staring mutely at his partner, and Jefferson Wilbur eying the man before him critically.
"What are you up to at this time of night, Balasco?" asked Mr. Wilbur, at length.
"I was—er—looking for some of my private papers," stammered the other. "Now that you have placed this young fellow in charge, I didn't want him to get mixed up in my private affairs."
"I don't wish anything to do with your private affairs," retorted Owen quickly.
"We may as well come to an understanding to-night instead of to-morrow," went on Jefferson Wilbur. "I know exactly how you have been acting, Balasco. What have you to say for yourself?"
"I reckon I had a right to do as I thought best," growled Ulmer Balasco.
"And ruin me? No, indeed!"
"I wasn't going to ruin anybody."