"So there is something on that page?"
"Yes, but you could not make it out, for you never saw the——." Here Owen paused.
"The what?" asked Bertha.
Just then the book dropped from Owen's hands. The fly-leaf, which was loose, fell out, was caught by the strong draft of the fire-place, and was carried up the chimney.
"Oh, Bertha!" cried Owen. "There it goes, and it's on fire. It was all about a great secret, a——oh, if I could only tell you! But some day you shall know all about it."
CHAPTER XV.
AROUND THE FIRE-PLACE.
Father Byrne, who had noticed Owen's fondness for reading and wished to encourage him in this respect, brought him the few books he could obtain. Among the number was a selection of English poets, the first book of poems which Owen had ever seen.
He had not possessed the treasure many days before Martin Cooper came over to see it. When the latter arrived, Owen was busy with the chores.