was best to do next? Hal revolved the question in his mind a number
of times, and then, without wasting time, made his way back to the
costumer's establishment.

"I wish my disguise changed," he said.

"What, already?" said the proprietor, in astonishment.

"Yes, something has happened since I was here, and now I wish you to fix
me up differently."

"But the same sort of a character?"

"Yes."

"Then supposing I give you a different colored mustache and a beard for
those side whiskers?"

"That will do, if you will also change this suit and overcoat."

"Certainly."

The exchange was quickly made, and, looking like an entirely different
person, Hal left the costumer's and hurried down to Wall Street.

Making sure that no one but the new book-keeper and Mr. Sumner were
about the place, he entered.

"That's a splendid disguise," said the old broker, when the two were
alone.

"It's the second I've had to-day," said Hal.

"The second?"

"Yes. Since I saw you last I've had quite a few adventures."

"Of what nature, Hal? I trust you had no more trouble?"

"It didn't amount to much."

And, sitting down, Hal related all that had occurred.

"Dick Ferris must be a very wicked boy," remarked the broker, when Hal
had finished. "But about these slips that he is going to have printed.
Are you positive Mr. Allen gave them to him?"

"No, sir. But I think he did. He gave Ferris something and some money,
and Ferris lost no time in getting to the printing establishment."

"Humph!" Mr. Sumner mused for a moment. "I can hardly believe it, even
though the evidence seems plain enough."

"What are the slips?" asked Hal, with considerable curiosity.

"They are of the kind which we use in our daily business. Since Mr.
Allen and myself agreed to end our limited partnership, I have kept the
regular slips in my safe. Formerly they were in Hardwick's charge, where
both of us could have easy access to them, but now--well, to be plain, I
allow no business to be conducted unless under my supervision."

"And that is right, Mr. Sumner."

"Now, if Mr. Allen is really having these extra slips printed, it would
seem as if he--he----"

"Intended to make use of them without consulting you," finished Hal,
bluntly.

"Yes."

"He is none too good for that, sir. But wasn't he here this morning?"

"Yes. We had a very stormy interview. He is angry because I discharged
Hardwick, and would not believe me when I said Hardwick was a
d