Mrs. Walton appeared to be greatly disturbed by these disagreeable tidings. She said she had come there expecting to meet her son, who had just returned from Australia, and it was very trying to be told that he had been arrested for theft. Then she inquired what amount would be required for security.
The counsel named the sum fixed by the police justice, whereupon Mrs.
Walton appeared to be considerably agitated for a moment.
"I am an entire stranger in the city," she remarked, recovering herself somewhat. "I know no one to whom I could appeal to become bound for so large a sum. What can I do?"
"Have you plenty of means at your disposal, madame?" her companion inquired.
"Yes, I could give bail to almost any reasonable amount, only being a stranger here, I fear it would not be accepted from me," the lady returned, with a look of anxiety.
"No; but I think I can suggest a way out of that difficulty," said the lawyer, with a crafty smile.
"Then do so," said Mrs. Walton, quickly; "I am willing to pay handsomely to secure the release of my son from his uncomfortable position."
"Very well. Then if you can command the sum named you can deposit it in one of the city banks and I will attend to all other formalities for you. Of course, the money will be returned to you after the trial of your son."
"Could such arrangements be made?" Mrs. Walton eagerly inquired.
"Certainly. All that is required is sufficient security to insure the young man's appearance at his trial, and then he will be released."