“No, in New York City. I am in a law office there.”

“I am pleased with your success. I would ask you to remain, but I am quite busy this morning.”

“Excuse me, Mr. Ray, but the repayment of the loan was not my only errand. I am here on more important business.”

Stephen Ray’s countenance changed. He began to fear that Bolton had found Ernest.

“When I was here last year you told me that Dudley Ray’s son, Ernest, was dead.”

“Yes, he died in Alabama.”

“When I was here before you told me he died in Georgia.”

“I believe it was Georgia,” said Stephen Ray, disconcerted.

“You will be glad to hear that it is a mistake—about the death, I mean. He is as much alive as you are.”

“Mr. Bolton,” said Ray angrily, “you are trying to impose upon me. The boy is dead, I tell you.”