The Norths had been among the town's earliest settlers, John's
grandfather having taken his place among the pioneers when Mount Hope
had little but its name to warrant its place on the map. At his death
Stephen, his only son, assumed the family headship, married, toiled,
thrived and finished his course following his wife to the old
burying-ground after a few lonely heart-breaking months, and leaving
John without kin, near or far, but with a good name and fair riches.

"I have brought you those gas bonds, Mr. McBride," said North, going at
once to the purpose of his visit.

The old merchant nodded understandingly.

"I hope you can arrange to let me have the money for them to-day,"
continued North.

"I think I can manage it, John. Atkinson and Judge Langham's boy, Marsh,
were just here and left a bit of cash. Maybe I can make up the sum."
While he was speaking, he had gone to the safe which stood open in one
corner of the small office.

In a moment he returned to the desk with a roll of bills in his hands
which he counted lovingly, placing them, one by one, in a neat pile
before him.

"You're still in the humor to go away?" he asked, when he had finished
counting the money.

"Never more so!" said North briefly.