Mrs. Briggs was exasperated by our hero’s coolness.
“Have you the effrontery to fancy you will be taken back after such a crime?” she demanded.
“I have committed no crime, Mrs. Briggs. The charge is false, as I shall prove to Mr. Sands when he returns from Washington. He is a just man, and understands that the book-keeper is prejudiced against me.”
“When will Mr. Sands return?” asked Mr. Briggs.
“In a few days. He has gone to the sick-bed of his brother. I shall wait till he returns before taking any steps to clear myself.”
“It is probably your best course. I hope all will come out right.”
“I think it will,” said Gilbert. “Now, let me bid you good-evening.”
“Why not stay the evening?” said Mr. Briggs, in a friendly tone.
“Thank you very much, but I will wait till I am cleared of this charge. I came up to-night because I wanted you to know about it.”
“I will accompany you to the door,” said Mr. Briggs.