"Did you ever see this man before? Of course you never did!" prompted
the financier.

"I never saw him before, sir."

"Certainly not! What have you to say to the ridiculous, nonsensical
story that you attempted to elope with my daughter?"

Not by a flicker of the eyelids did the imperturbable maker of
million-dollar checks show confusion.

"If such a lie needs denial from me I most firmly do deny it, sir."

"You cheap renegade!" roared the captain.

"That will do, Mr. Bradish!"

The clerk obeyed the wave of his master's hand and retired quickly.

"Mr. Marston," raved Mayo, "I'm fighting for all that's worth while
to me in life. My reputation as a master mariner, my chance to make a
living in my work. I was a fool on board your yacht! With all my soul I
am penitent. I will-"

"Enough! Don't you dare to discuss my own daughter with me!"

"I don't intend to, sir. I'm going to believe that you don't know what
your understrappers have done to me. You only see results. But find out
what is being done in your name, Mr. Marston. Some day it will be bad
for you if you don't stop 'em."

"Is that a threat?"

"It's only my appeal for justice. My God, sir--"

"There's justice waiting for you."

"Then send out for your marshals. Let them drag me into court! Your man
Bradigh's mouth is closed now, but it has been open. I know what has
been done to me. Let them put me on the stand. You don't dare to have me
stand up in court and tell what I know."

"Do you suppose I am running the Federal courts?"

"You'd better find out whether you have power or not. There are men in
this world who will believe an honest man's true story!"

"Good day!" said Mr. Marston, significantly.

Mayo hesitated, gazed into the impassive countenance of the magnate,
and then conviction of the uselessness of argument overwhelmed him. He
started for the door.

"Certain sensible things can be done," Marston called after him. "You'd
better get out of New York. If you know of a place to hide you'd better
get into it."

Mayo did not reply. He strode out through the offices, descended to the
street, and went on his way.

He did not notice that an automobile pursued him through the roaring
traffic of the streets, halting ahead of him when, he had turned into
one of the quieter thoroughfares.

The car was close to the curb, and Alma Marston put out her hand and
signaled to him. "He gave-you no hope-nothing?"

"Nothing!"

"I have waited. I t