"Before we ask Michael to tell his story, I should like to have you look at this picture, Mrs. Havers," said Penny. She offered the photograph of Herman Crocker. "Have you seen the man before?"
"Let me turn up the light. My eyes aren't as strong as they were."
Mrs. Havers studied the picture intently for a minute.
"This is a photograph of Mr. Keenan," said the former matron. Her gaze wandered to Michael. "He is the man who brought you to the Orphan's Home."
"You are certain?" asked Mr. Nichols eagerly.
"Of course I am," answered the old lady firmly. "I seldom forget a face. This is a very good likeness of Mr. Keenan as I remember him."
"Mr. Keenan and Herman Crocker were one and the same person!" cried Penny. "I am beginning to understand everything now!"
"Then I wish you'd explain it to me," said Michael. "I have known for some time that Crocker was supposed to be my uncle, but until now I rather doubted that there was any truth to the story."
"How did you learn that he was related to you?" Penny asked quickly.
"Through an anonymous letter," Michael replied. "It was forwarded to me after I left the Glenhaven Home. The writer informed me that my true name was Walter Crocker and that I would find evidence to support my claim to the Crocker fortune at your cottage."