need of our meeting again, or being seen together. The more quiet we
can keep our plans, the better it will be for all concerned. Neale,
hand Craig your copy of the articles of administration, and of the
will."

I took these and read them over carefully, yet without fully
comprehending the legal phraseology. They were apparently genuine, and
I gathered from them that the facts were exactly as stated. Peter B.
Neale, of Birmingham, was named one of the administrators. The two men
watched me read, and when I laid the papers down Vail was ready with
others.

"Here is a small packet of letters from Judge Henley to his son," he
said, in a business-like way, "which you had better read, and so
familiarize yourself with local names, and conditions. I have also
drawn up, and had typed, a brief sketch of young Henley's life, which
will aid you in playing the part. You will need a new outfit of
clothes, I presume?"

"This is my best suit."

"I thought it probable. Now, if you will sign this paper, I will hand
you a liberal advance."

I read it over slowly, but it appeared innocent enough. Of course they
would require some guarantee that my work would be performed. Yet
certain questions arose to my mind.

[Illustration: I read it over slowly, but it appeared innocent enough.]