"
But it was no pleasure after all for Richard to read the two
communications, for each was a disappointment.
The first was from a firm of lawyers who wished to take the case in
hand at "astonishingly low terms," which must, however, be paid in
advance. The other had been sent by a private detective, who was willing
to institute a search for the missing party for the modest sum of three
dollars per day, also payable in advance.
"Just what I thought they might be," observed Doc Linyard, when the
reading was finished. "You can tear them up. We don't want such outside
help."
Richard did as directed.
"It's a pity that such letters should cause you so much trouble," went
on the old sailor; "but that's the way of the world."
"Have you had any other letters?" asked Richard, for he had not seen
Doc Linyard for several days, and thought it possible that something
might have turned up in the meantime.
"Nary a word. I've put the advertisement in the papers--three of
'em--twice now, and not a single answer."
"It's too bad. Have you heard anything from the property in England?"
"Yes; I got a letter to-day asking me to hurry, as they wanted to
settle affairs up there."
"Did you answer?"
"Not yet. You know it's hard lines for me to write.
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