“Mr. Sherwood?” said the telegraph messenger inquiringly.

“That is my name,” answered Walter.

“A message for you.”

Walter opened the note, and read as follows:

“I am called out of the city. You may close up at four, and leave the key with the janitor. Report for duty to-morrow morning. LOCKE.”

“What is it?” asked the young man eagerly.

Walter showed him the note.

“It looks to me like some trick,” said the stranger.

“But I don't see any object in it.”

“He has your thirty dollars.”