"Has he done this?" asked Uncle Jacob, sharply.
"So he says."
At this moment a knock was heard at the door, and there was a new and unexpected arrival, which produced a sensation.
It was Robert Manning, of Brooklyn.
"You telegraphed to me, Mr. Marlowe," he said. "This man, I believe, is John Barton."
"You are right, sir," responded Barton, calmly.
"I might have brought with me an officer and an order of arrest, but I have chosen instead to offer to drop all action against you if you will restore the bonds or their equivalent. I have no wish to be revenged, but I want reparation."
"As I never took your bonds, I am not the person to apply to," replied Barton.
"Then perhaps you will have the kindness to tell me who did take the bonds," said Manning, incredulously.
"I will do that," responded Ralph Harding, coming forward. "There he stands!"