I inherit the property, as is my right, your services shall be
remembered," said John Wade.

"Thank you, Mr. John," said the gratified housekeeper.

"That secures her help," thought John, in his turn.

"She will now work hard for me. When the time comes, I can do as much or
as little for her as I please."

"Of course, we must work together against this interloper, who appears
to have gained a dangerous influence over my uncle."

"You can depend upon me, Mr. John," said Mrs. Bradley.

"I will think it over, and tell you my plan," said John Wade. "But my
uncle will wonder at my appetite. I must go back to the library. We will
speak of this subject again."



CHAPTER XII

A FALSE FRIEND


When John Wade re-entered the library, Frank was reading, but Mr.
Wharton stopped him.

"That will do, Frank," he said. "As I have not seen my nephew for a long