"It's best to open her eyes," he reasoned, "even if it does cause her pain."
The second letter was from Dick Marden, enclosing the order from Felix Amberton for the map. In this the old miner urged Robert to obtain the document at the earliest possible moment.
"Our enemies are hedging us in and intend to proceed against us in the county court in a day or two," he added. "As soon as we get the map we will know just where we stand, and our lawyer will know exactly what claims he can make. My uncle is of the opinion that the other side is making a big bluff in the hope that we will offer to compromise."
"I'll go and get the document the first thing in the morning," Robert told himself. "And if all goes well I'll be on my way to Timberville by noon."
With the money recovered from Andy Cross, and with what his mother had sent to him, he now had ample funds for the trip. After writing the letter to his parent, he packed his valise, that nothing might delay his start.
A surprise awaited him the next morning just after he had left the dining room, and while he was telling Mrs. Gibbs that he intended to go away, to be gone an indefinite time.
"A gentleman to see Mr. Frost," announced the girl, and entering the parlor Robert found himself confronted by his step-father.
"Good-morning, Robert," said James Talbot, smiling affably and extending his hand.
"Good-morning, Mr. Talbot," replied our hero coldly. He pretended not to see the outstretched hand.
"I suppose you are surprised to see me here," began Mr. Talbot awkwardly.