informed on good authority," said Mr. Topman, "that you possess the
secret of where Kidd's treasure is buried--"

"Vel, vel, vel!" exclaimed Hanz, raising his hands in astonishment; "if
dat ish'nt so pig a lie as ever vas told. No, mine friend, I knows
nothin' apout dis Mr. Kidd, nor his money. Dis one big lie de peoples
pout here gits up, as has nothin' petter to do."

"It's somewhat singular," said Chapman, fixing his keen black eyes on
the stranger, "it was that that brought me here to-night. Mr.
Toodleburg may be innocent of all knowledge of Mr. Kidd, as he says. But
the people sincerely believe that he does, and that he possesses the
secret of where his treasure is buried. The belief is just as good as
the reality, and may be made equally profitable."

"Exactly," interposed Mr. Topman, "exactly! Just what I was going to
suggest." Here Mr. Topman put his thumbs in the arms of his waistcoat,
and drummed on the front with his fingers. "If these honest people
believe Mr. Toodleburg knows where the money is buried, why, sir,
there's your solid basis for a grand joint stock company, dividends
twenty per cent., payable quarterly. That's what takes. God bless me,
Mr. Toodleburg, here's a fortune in your fingers. Capable heads, sir,
and capable hands. There's all, sir, that is required to give the thing
popularity and insure its success." Mr. Topman paused for a moment,
threw himself back in his chair, and cast a patronizing glance at Hanz.
"Progressive idea, sir. Grand Kidd Discovery Company. Capital one
hundred thousand dollars, all paid in. The man fortunate enough to get
twenty shares is sure to make a fortune."

"Den if he pe so grand, why you don't make all de fortune, and keep him