stroke. I'm going to be a genealogist. I'm going to be at work tracing
the Blaisdell family--their name is Blaisdell. I'm writing a book
which necessitates the collection of an endless amount of data. Now
how about that fly's chances of observation. Eh?"

"Mighty poor, if he's swatted--and that's what he will be! New England
housewives are death on flies, I understand."

"Well, I'll risk this one."

"You poor fellow!" There were exasperation and amusement in the
lawyer's eyes, but there was only mock sympathy in his voice. "And to
think I've known you all these years, and never, suspected it,
Fulton!"

The man who owned twenty millions still smiled imperturbably.

"Oh, yes, I know what you mean, but I'm not crazy. And really I'm
interested in genealogy, too, and I've been thinking for some time I'd
go digging about the roots of my ancestral tree. I have dug a little,
in years gone. My mother was a Blaisdell, you know. Her grandfather
was brother to some ancestor of these Hillerton Blaisdells; and I
really am interested in collecting Blaisdell data. So that's all
straight. I shall be telling no fibs. And think of the opportunity it
gives me! Besides, I shall try to board with one of them. I've decided
that."

"Upon my word, a pretty little scheme!"

"Yes, I knew you'd appreciate it, the more you thought about it." Mr.