The next morning after breakfast Mrs. Vernon said: "Be ready to go downtown with me at two o'clock. I will introduce you at my bank, as I shall have occasion to send you there at times to draw and deposit money."
"When shall you wish me to write for you, Mrs. Vernon?"
"To-day, just after dinner. It will not always be at the same hour."
They set out at the time mentioned. Mrs. Vernon introduced Robert to the teller at what we will call the Bank of Chicago, and announced that he would act as her messenger and agent.
As they left the bank she said: "I shall now leave you to your own devices--only stipulating that you be at home at two o'clock."
"It seems I am to have an easy time," thought Robert, when left alone.
In one of the cross streets leading from Clark to State Street Robert met Frederic Vernon and a friend.
"Hallo, Frost!" said the former. "Have you been out with my aunt?"
"Yes, sir."
"Cameron, this is Mr. Frost, my aunt's private secretary."