At these surprising answers, Bob's heart seemed to come up in his throat, stifling his speech. But noticing that his questions had aroused the clerk's curiosity, he hurriedly left the office.
Needing time to think, the boy hastened along till he came to a building which served as a saloon, diningroom and gambling den.
Attracted by the food sign, he entered, took a seat near a partition, and ordered some pork and beans.
But before it was brought, he had forgotten about eating. From behind the partition, loud voices were audible and he caught the word "Ford."
Listening intently, he heard a voice say:
"Sure, we can do it! I've got the papers all ready, old Sam Ford's signature and all. Just pass over that two thousand five hundred dollars, and I'll give them to you."
"But suppose Ford fights us in court?" exclaimed another voice.
"He won't do that!" growled a third. "Leave it to me!"
"Now, Bill, there's to be no"
But before Bob could catch the last word, the waiter came in with his pork and beans and, noticing that the boy was listening with head close to the partition, shouted:
