“You see,” said Ford, adroitly, “that Grant Thornton's old friend testifies against him. I don't think I need say any more except to deny, in toto, the statement of that low telegraph boy.”
“I'm no lower than you are,” retorted Johnny, angrily.
“None of your impertinence, boy!” said Ford, loftily.
“I must say,” interposed the housekeeper, “that this seems a very discreditable conspiracy against my stepson. I am sure, Mr. Reynolds, you won't allow his reputation to be injured by such a base attack.”
“Mr. Ford,” said the broker, “I have listened attentively to what you have said. I ought to say that a telegraph boy has as much right to be believed as yourself.”
“Even when there are three against him?”
“The three are interested parties.”
“I have no doubt he is also. I presume he has an understanding with Grant Thornton, who is a suspected thief.”
“I deny that, Mr. Ford,” exclaimed Grant, indignantly.
“You are certainly suspected of stealing my stepmother's bonds.”