“You bet I dare—that’s jest what I want to do.”
“You shall do so, then,” said the banker.
Herbert Randolph and Bob Hunter followed him, at his invitation, into his private room.
CHAPTER XX.
FELIX MORTIMER DISCOMFITED.
Felix Mortimer sat at a desk facing the door, and was writing when the banker and the two boys entered the room. He did not look up till Herbert and Bob had advanced several steps toward him, and stopped. But his eyes now met theirs, and he sprang to his feet like one suddenly surprised by a lurking enemy. Herbert and Bob stood there for a moment, boldly facing him. Not a word was spoken on either side.
The banker took a position where he could watch the effect of this strange meeting upon both parties. He saw the color fade from young Mortimer’s face, and a look of unmistakable fear spread over it. In fact, his whole manner betrayed the alarm that now possessed him.
In strong contrast to the appearance of this young villain was Herbert Randolph’s frank, truthful look. He had no cause for fear. The peculiar fire that shone in his eyes revealed a meaning that was at once impressive and determined. Before him stood one who had wronged him outrageously, stolen his position away from him, and blackened his character with ingenious falsehood.