Mr. Sands was therefore surprised to see John in the office, with his hat off.
“Where is Gilbert?” he asked, abruptly.
John looked confused.
“He’ll tell you,” he said, pointing to his cousin.
“Have you dismissed Gilbert, Mr. Moore?” demanded Mr. Sands, abruptly.
Moore, in spite of his bravado, was a little nervous. He was apprehensive that he would not be able to convince Mr. Sands of Gilbert’s guilt.
“I was obliged to discharge him, I am sorry to say,” he answered.
“Why did you discharge him, may I inquire?” persisted the broker.
Simon Moore, himself of a haughty disposition, flushed at the imperative tone which his employer used. It chafed him especially to be so addressed in the presence of his young cousin.
“I don’t suppose you wish to have a thief in your employ,” he answered, hastily.