“Yes; do you know anything of him?”
“His name is very familiar to me. Tell me, are you the son of James Greyson, formerly a merchant in the West Indies?”
It was Gilbert’s turn to be excited.
“My father died in the West Indies,” he answered; “but I know very little of him. Did you know him, Mr. Talbot?”
“I ought to know him. I was his book-keeper up to the time of his death.”
“Is it possible?” ejaculated Gilbert. “How glad I am to meet you! I know nothing of my father except what Mr. Briggs has told me.”
“One thing I do not understand,” continued the sick man. “You say you have no property; but this cannot be. Your father left seventy-five thousand dollars.”
“Seventy-five thousand dollars! Are you sure, Mr. Talbot?”
“No one can be surer. I knew all about your father’s business and the extent of his property.”
“Was this money entrusted to my guardian?” asked Gilbert, quickly.