"First, can I do something for your comfort? Can't I get you some breakfast?"
"The message first."
"I will give it at once. Do you remember purchasing some government bonds for Mr. Armstrong a short time before you left his employment?"
"Yes. What of them?"
"Have you preserved the numbers of the bonds?" Luke inquired, anxiously.
"Why do you ask?"
"Because Mr. Armstrong has lost his list, and they have been stolen. Till he learns the numbers, he will stand no chance of identifying or recovering them."
"I am sure I have the numbers. Feel in the pocket of my coat yonder, and you will find a wallet. Take it out and bring it to me."
Luke obeyed directions.
The sick man opened the wallet and began to examine the contents. Finally he drew out a paper, which he unfolded.