"A note for Mrs. Middleton," announced a servant.
She took the missive and hastily opened it. It read thus:
"My dear Madam—At last, after unwearied exertions, I have succeeded. The man, Rudolph Rugg, has been found by one of my messengers, and is at this moment in my office, ready to obey your summons. Shall I send him to you?
"Yours, respectfully,
"Jacob Morris.""P. S.—I assured you at the outset that if he were living I would find him. I am sure you will appreciate my exertions in your behalf."
"That means a larger bill," thought the lady. "However, I am willing to pay handsomely. The man is found, and he can, doubtless, produce the boy."
"Wait!" she said, in an imperious tone, to the servant, who was about to withdraw. "There is an answer."
She hastily penciled the following note:
"I am very glad you have found Rudolph Rugg. I wish to speak to him at once. Send him here directly."
"Short and not sweet!" commented the lawyer, when it was placed in his hands. "She says nothing about the compensation."
"Is it about me?" asked the tramp, watching the lawyer's face eagerly.