Jack held a prolonged talk with Berwick, drawing out many little facts and incidents which it is not material to our narrative to record, and in good time he returned to the city of New York, and one night appeared at the elegant home of Mr. Townsend. He had given the old banker warning of his visit, and Mr. Townsend was prepared to receive him, and again saluted him with the appellation:
"Well, wonderful man, what have you to record now?"
"I have an announcement to make."
"Of that I am sure."
"Yes, sir, I can safely say now the chances are that you will be compelled to surrender the fortune."
"Great Scott! young man, what is that you say?"
"You will be compelled to surrender the fortune."
"Never," came the declaration.
"Aha! then all your zeal was a 'fake?'"
"No."