"He says he does not."

"He lies, but at the same time he won't tell her. It's not in him
to do it. God, he has served me ill to-day. He has always hated
me, but he was always true to me. He did me a vile trick when he
changed the cartridges in my revolver. By God, I discharged him for
that. I told him to appear against me if he would. He was free to
do so. But, curse him, he would not give me the satisfaction of
knowing that he was a traitor. He knew I'd go over the road, anyhow.
He's been waiting for this day to come. He has finally given me
the unhappiest hour in my life."

After a few moments he quieted down and asked Graydon what his plans
were for the future. In a strained uncertain way the two talked of
the young man's prospects and the advantages they promised.

"Go ahead, Graydon, and don't let the shadow of your father haunt
you. Don't forget me, boy, because I love you better than all the
world. These are strange words for a man who has fallen as I have
fallen, but they are true. Listen to this: you will be a rich man
some day; I have a fortune to give you, my boy. They can't take my
money from me, you know. It's all to be yours--every cent of it.
You see--"

"Father--I--let us not talk about it now," said Graydon hastily,
a shadow of repugnance in his eyes. Bansemer studied his face for
a moment and a deep red mounted to his brow.

"You mean, Graydon," he stammered, "that you--you do not want my
money?"