"I will do what you request," responded Mr. Silby; "but believe me, you
will find that you are mistaken."

"Another thing," continued William. "If at any time I should telegraph
to you these words--'_Look out for that package_!' please remember that
'that package' means Pearson, and he must not be allowed to go away."

"All this I will do, because I know you are doing what you think best;
but I am confident all will be made right for the boy in good time."

"For your sake, Mr. Silby, I hope so, too, but I am not so sanguine of
that: and we cannot afford to take any risks."

Mr. Silby arose to his feet, and grasping my son's hand, withdrew
without a word. As he passed out, William looked after him with a
feeling of compassion he rarely experienced.

"It is a great pity," he murmured to himself, "that so much strong,
manly faith should be so sadly misplaced, and I fear very much that
before we are through with this case, Mr. Silby's trust in human nature
will be badly shattered. But we must do our duty, and the right must
triumph at last--we must await the result."




CHAPTER VI.

The Detective at Woodford.--An Interview with the Discarded Wife of