"You don't have to. I have evidence enough to convict you without any admissions on your part. I discovered your scheme in time. A few days more and it would have been too late to pay the taxes, and save the property for Mr. Bradner and his son."
"Was he going to take the property?" asked Roy, amazed at the duplicity of the agent his father had trusted.
"He was. That is why he tried to have you put out of the way. He was afraid you would interfere with his plan before the two weeks expired. Fortunately I discovered it in time. To-morrow I will pay the taxes in your father's name, and the building will remain the property of him and yourself."
"What's the charge against these two, then?" asked the sergeant.
"Attempted kidnapping and embezzlement against him," replied Mr. Ketchum, indicating Annister, "and against Wakely, a charge of actual kidnapping. I think we shall be able to arrest the others in the gang, also."
"Hold on!" exclaimed a voice, and Roy turned around to behold Mortimer De Royster. "There's another charge to be made."
"Who against?" asked the sergeant, impressed by the apparently wealthy air of the jewelry salesman.
"Against him," pointing to Wakely.
"What is the charge?"
"Robbery. He and three others stole my gold watch and diamond pin."