“Yes, uncle, I will.”

“Uncle Julius seems a good deal interested in this man, considering that he is a stranger,” thought the boy.

The bookkeeper was biting his nails, a habit he had when he was annoyed. “And, Leonard,” he added slowly, “don’t mention my name while you are speaking to Stark.”

“No, sir, I won’t, if you don’t want me to,” answered Leonard, his face betraying unmistakable curiosity. His uncle noted this, and explained hurriedly: “It is possible that he may be a man whom I once met under disagreeable circumstances, and I would prefer not to meet him again. Should he learn that I was living here, he would be sure to want to renew the acquaintance.”

“Yes, sir, I see. I don’t think he would want to borrow money, for he seems to be pretty well provided. I made a dollar out of him to-day, and that is one reason why I am willing to call on him again. I may strike him for another bill.”

“There is no objection to that, provided you don’t talk to him too freely. I don’t think he will want to stay long in Milford.”

“I wouldn’t if I had as much money as he probably has.”

“Do you often meet the new boy?”

“Carl Crawford?”

“Yes; I see him on the street quite often.”