“Milwaukie, Wis., May 27, 18—.
“Mr. Turner,—Dear sir: yours of the 21st, asking information as to the probable value of a certain land warrant in your possession, has come to hand. It appears that the land was located, though the owner never appeared to take possession of it. In consequence it has fallen into the hands of others. The tract in question is a valuable one, being situated only a few miles out of Milwaukie, and has upon it several valuable buildings. My own opinion is, that if the matter is followed up, though you might not be able to get possession without a protracted lawsuit, so much value being involved, the present holders would be willing to pay a considerable sum by way of compromise. It might be worth while for you to come on, and see about the matter yourself. I will assist you to the best of my ability.
“Yours respectfully,
“Francis Robinson.”
Squire Turner read this letter with a lively interest. So the neglected yellow paper promised to be valuable, after all. Perhaps, indeed, it might be worth thousands of dollars. In that case, Mrs. Raymond would be very well off.
The main question in Squire Turner’s mind was, how could he manage so as to profit by it himself. He was meditating upon this as he walked home from the post-office, when he met Harry Raymond, driving the store-wagon.
Harry paused, and hailed the squire.
“Squire Turner,” he said, “have you found out anything yet about that paper I left with you?”
“Not yet,” said the squire, falsely; for he had no intention of disclosing the truth at present. “I am afraid we can’t get anything for it after so many years. When I hear anything I will let you know.”