"This information is of great importance, Grit," said the president. "If, as you say, there are three conspirators, there would be a very good chance of their succeeding in overpowering any messenger, and abstracting the bonds. As it happens, the bonds do not belong to the bank, but to an individual depositor, but it would be very unpleasant and mortifying to have them taken from our messenger. It might lead to a supposition on the part of some that we didn't keep our secrets well, but suffered a matter as important as this to become known outside. Mr. Courtney, what would you advise to be done in such an emergency?"
Courtney always looked important when his advice was asked, and answered promptly:
"It is a very simple matter. Put the messenger on his guard. Supply him with a revolver, if need be, and if he is on the watch he can't be robbed."
Mr. Graves looked thoughtful, and appeared to be turning over this advice in his mind.
"If Mr. Courtney will excuse me," Grit said, "I think there is a better plan than that."
Courtney's lip curled.
"Ask the boy's advice, by all means, Mr. Graves," he said, with a palpable sneer. "It must be very valuable, considering his experience and knowledge of the world."
CHAPTER XXIII. GRIT GIVES IMPORTANT ADVICE.
"Let me hear your idea, Grit," said Mr. Graves courteously.