"No, sir," said John. "If Andy Grant has told you this he has told a lie."
"The matter is easily settled. Come around with me to the pawnbroker's."
John stammered and finally confessed.
"Of course I cannot retain your services after this. You, Mr. Rich, may remain till the end of the month. I shall then feel obliged to make a change."
Never were two conspirators more quickly punished. Simon Rich repented bitterly yielding to the temptation to injure Andy. His malice had recoiled upon himself.
CHAPTER XXIV. — ANDY MAKES AN INVESTMENT.
Andy wrote to his friend, Walter Gale, who, it will be remembered, was watching in Pennsylvania by the bedside of his uncle, giving him an account of his change of business. He received the following reply:
"I felt indignant when I read your news of the conspiracy of Simon
Rich, but was pleased that it led to your advantage. I am inclined
to think that you will find your new business a better one than the
jewelry trade. The latter, if you went in for yourself, would call
for a large capital. In the real estate business capital is not so
much needed as good judgment and a large lot of acquaintances. I am
not personally acquainted with Mr. Crawford, but know him by
reputation as an energetic and honorable business man. If you do not
find your income adequate, all you have to do is to apply to me. I
will send you fifty dollars or more at any time.
"Now, as to the prospects of my return, they are remote. My uncle
seems cheered by my presence, and his health has improved. He cannot
live more than a year or two at the best, but when I came here it
seemed to be only a matter of months. I shall remain while I can do
him good.
"When Mr. Flint returns he will do you justice. You can afford to
wait, as your income is larger than before. You suggest that I need
not continue to pay your board. This, however, I intend to do, and
will advise you to lay aside some money every week, and deposit in a
savings bank. The habit of saving is excellent, and cannot be formed
too early."