“I shall know how to express my gratitude to Grant in due time,” he said.
On their way home Grant revealed to Mr. Reynolds for the first time the treachery of the housekeeper, who had suppressed Herbert's letter to his father, and left the latter to mourn for his son when she might have relieved him of the burden of sorrow.
As Mr. Reynolds listened, his face became stern.
“That woman is a viper!” he said. “In my house she has enjoyed every comfort and every consideration, and in return she has dealt me this foul blow. She will have cause to regret it.”
When they entered the house Mrs. Estabrook received them with false smiles.
“So you are back again, Master Herbert,” she said. “A fine fright you gave us!”
“You speak as if Herbert went away of his own accord,” said the broker sternly. “You probably know better.”
“I know nothing, sir, about it.”
“Then I may inform you that it was your stepson, Willis Ford, who stole my boy—a noble revenge, truly, upon me for discharging him.”
“I don't believe it,” said the housekeeper. “I presume it is your office boy who makes this charge?” she added, pressing her thin lips together.