Wren uttered a groan.
CHAPTER IX
Jimmy Wren refused to utter a word until behind closed doors. Armstrong led him upstairs to the library, while Dorothy, discovering that Wren had eaten nothing since the previous day and had just come in on the morning train, ordered Uncle Neb to fetch something after them.
In the library, Armstrong procured a bottle of whisky, poured a stiff drink for Wren, and forced him to swallow it. Dorothy closed the doors.
"All set, Jimmy," said Armstrong, watching Wren calmly. "What is it?"
"Trouble," blurted Wren, desperation in his face. "Federal investigation—indictments! We're all going to be indicted—you and me, all of us! By this time there's been a fraud order issued against us. The business is wrecked. We'll be arrested—"
From Armstrong broke a laugh of angry incredulity.
"Man, are you drunk? What's wrong with you?"
Wren stared at him from terrible eyes.