He had made a hard journey, without proper food or sleep, and he was all but exhausted. Larry, though having had a hard time, was still fresh and vigorous. He faced the man relentlessly. Norton quailed before the clear eyes of the young reporter.
“I—” he began again. Larry took a step toward him.
“There is the million!” the absconder suddenly exclaimed, and, tossing aside a lap-robe, he disclosed a valise strapped to the seat beside him. “Take it!” he cried. “I’m glad you found me. Now maybe I’ll get some sleep!” and leaning his head on the steering-wheel, he sobbed bitterly.
It was some minutes before Larry knew what to do, for he was much affected. Then he said gently:
“Mr. Norton, you had better come back with me. If you flee it will only make it worse for you, and you will be caught in the end. Will you come?”
“Yes,” was the muffled answer. “This is the end. I’m all in!”
Larry reached for the valise, and opened it.
“The money’s all there, except a few thousands that I spent,” said Norton. “I can pay those back by selling my house. Oh, what a life I’ve led these last few weeks! What a life!”
It needed but a glance to show Larry that the million was almost intact. Only one of the original packages of thousand-dollar bills had been opened, and that was not much depleted.
“We’ll go back in my car,” suggested Larry gently. “I think it is in better condition than yours, and we can send for yours later.”