Upon her arrival in Manchester, Mrs. Baxter went to the Maryland Hotel, where she was joined, in due course, by her attorney from Boston.
"Harding, I want you to buy every share of stock possible in the First National Bank of Baxter," she commanded, after the generalities of greeting.
"But——"
"Don't 'but' me. Buy, no matter what you are obliged to pay. This is not a matter of investment. It is one of retribution—and I think I can afford it."
"Surely, Mrs. Baxter."
"Then carry out my instructions at your earliest opportunity. Now fetch Samuel Bronson to see me."
Accustomed to the curt commands of the wealthy woman, her attorney hastened to the offices of the distinguished lawyer, and soon returned with him.
"I understand you are representing Benjamin Markham, Mr. Bronson," she said, when the introduction had been completed.
"Yes, Mrs. Baxter."
"I want you to tell me just how his case stands. I am his friend and desire to help him."