The door was opened by a servant. Steve gave his name and asked to see Mr. Penton. The latter came out into the hall a few seconds later.
"Good evening, boys. I was just on my way downtown to the post-office. You may walk along with me and tell me what I can do for you."
"We would rather speak with you here, sir, in private," answered Steve earnestly.
"Is it so important as that, my lad?"
"It is, sir."
"Come into the parlor," said Mr. Penton, leading the way and switching on the electric lights. "State your business as briefly as possible."
The superintendent seated himself, motioning the boys to be seated also.
"By chance, I overheard a conversation between you and the mine captain at chute seventeen the other day," said Steve. "I did not want to listen, sir, but I will confess that what you said impressed me so strongly that I took a deep interest in it."
"Conversation about what?" demanded Mr. Penton rather more sharply than was his wont.