The door-bell rang, and when he opened the door with some surprise, for callers were few, he saw standing before him a tall, handsome boy, whom he did not recognize.
“Do you wish to see me?” he asked. “What is your name?”
“My name is Philip Brent.”
“What!” exclaimed Mr. Raynor, in visible excitement, “are you the son of the late Mr. Brent?”
“I was always regarded as such,” answered Philip.
“Come in, then. I am glad to see you,” said Mr. Raynor; and Phil entered the house, surprised at a reception much more cordial than he had expected.
In that brief moment Mr. Raynor had decided to reveal the secret to Phil, and trust to his gratitude for a suitable acknowledgment. In this way he would revenge himself upon Mrs. Brent, who had treated him so meanly.
“I have been wishing to see you, for I have a secret of importance to communicate,” said Mr. Raynor.
“If it relates to my parents, I know it already,” said Phil.
“No; it is something to your advantage. In revealing it I make Mrs. Brent my enemy, and shall forfeit the help she is giving me.”