Mr. Goldwin looked puzzled.
“The plot thickens,” said he. “Give me your story.”
Herbert related how he had been victimized, telling the facts much as I have given them in the preceding chapters of this narrative.
“Tell him about the knock out,” put in Bob, who evidently thought this one of the best parts of the story.
“What was that?” asked the banker.
Herbert explained.
“So that was what gave you the swollen jaw, was it?” said Mr. Goldwin, addressing Felix Mortimer in a severe tone.
“No, it was not,” said he. “I told you what did it, and I don’t propose to hear any more lies from street fellows like these,” added Mortimer, contemptuously, and at the same time moving towards the door.
“Stop!” said the banker, firmly. “You will not leave this room till this matter is cleared up.”
Young Mortimer winced, and Bob Hunter looked up at Herbert, and smiled suggestively.