Fortunately Mr. Bogart was in a great hurry; and when I assured him I had no fears in regard to my own safety, he left me in the house, with Mr. Rockwood. Before he went he took the occasion to apologize to me for doubting my story, earlier in the evening. Leaving Mr. Rockwood in the entry, I went in to see Mr. Gracewood again. He was exceedingly nervous and uneasy when I told him that his money was safe.
"And the whole story will be out in the newspapers on Monday morning," said he, gloomily.
"I don't know much about these things. I am willing to do anything that is right for you," I replied.
"I deserved to be exposed, but I have not the courage to meet the ordeal."
"Mr. Rockwood is waiting for me in the entry. He is a wealthy and influential gentleman. His brother and your brother were neighbors and intimate friends on the upper Missouri. If you will see him, I think he could serve you."
At first he was very unwilling to meet any one, but at last he consented. I stated the case to Mr. Rockwood in the entry, and then introduced him to the sufferer.
"Don't distress yourself, my dear sir," said Mr. Rockwood, when the misery of the other was manifested. "The best of men have their misfortunes."
"I cannot call that a misfortune which is brought upon me by my own folly and wickedness," replied Mr. Gracewood.
"But the best of men have their failings. Your secret is safe with me, and I shall only hope that you may be stronger in the future than in the past."